The Miami Dolphins have made a surprising decision in bolstering their cornerback lineup by signing Cornell Armstrong after a recent workout, passing over the opportunity to bring in former first-round pick C.J. Henderson. This move, occurring in 2024, highlights Miami’s strategy as they address critical gaps in their defensive backfield.

The Career Path and Current Situation of C.J. Henderson

C.J. Henderson was the ninth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars. Since then, his career has faced multiple challenges. Henderson has started a total of 27 NFL games, with 10 starts coming during his time in Jacksonville and 17 more with the Carolina Panthers. However, his former team, the Panthers, declined to exercise his fifth-year contract option, leading to his signing with the Houston Texans. Most recently, Henderson spent time on the Pittsburgh Steelers’ practice squad throughout the 2024 season, but did not appear in any regular-season contests.

Addressing Miami’s Cornerback Depth Concerns

The Dolphins made the decision to add Armstrong against the backdrop of a weakened secondary, notably due to Artie Burns suffering an ACL injury. While the team did evaluate Henderson during his workout, their preference for Armstrong indicates greater confidence in his ability to contribute immediately. Miami’s commitment to Armstrong suggests a shift toward addressing their defensive backfield challenges with available, ready players.

Implications for Miami’s Defense and Future Decisions

Though Henderson remains on the Dolphins’ radar as a potential cornerback option, the selection of Armstrong reflects their intention to reinforce the roster quickly. This move is part of a broader effort to prepare for the demands of the upcoming NFL season. Henderson’s experience and first-round draft status may still open doors for him in Miami or elsewhere if the need for additional cornerback depth arises later in the season.