The Jacksonville Jaguars are reportedly willing to trade cornerback C.J. Henderson
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler tweeted multiple executives believe the Jacksonville Jaguars are willing to trade the 9th pick of the 2020 draft.
A surprise: Multiple team execs believe #Jaguars corner C.J. Henderson — the ninth overall pick in 2020 — is available via trade. Jacksonville has given impression in some league circles that it’s shopping Henderson, a high-pedigree player one year into rookie deal.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) August 8, 2021
Cornerback C.J. Henderson was one of the top cornerbacks in last year’s draft. The details are not clear why the Jaguars are willing to part ways with a high draft pick so early in his career.
At 6 foot 1 and 202 pounds, Henderson offers the size, length, and athleticism to fit Vance Joseph’s man coverage scheme. Playing in the SEC, the former Florida Gator was battled tested prior to entering the draft. His battle vs Cincinnati’s rookie receiver Ja’Marr Chase was a fun study.
Henderson is an explosive athlete, he plays with proper pace and patience. The Arizona Cardinals could trot out a combination of either Malcolm Butler, Darqueze Dennard, or Robert Alford on the outside.
Butler’s tank has fuel remaining, Alford has not played since 2018. That is a risky move. A possible trade for Henderson has contractual perks. He is still on his rookie deal, the team would have a fifth year option to utilize if necessary.
Also, he is a competitive defensive back that challenges receivers at the line of scrimmage, throughout the route stem, and the catch point.
Jags’ CJ Henderson was sensational in his NFL debut. pic.twitter.com/A0PLKd8p1S
— Austin Gayle (@PFF_AustinGayle) September 13, 2020
More than likely, the story in Duval county goes deeper than reported. If the Jaguars are adamant on cutting ties with the sophomore cornerback, general manager Steve Keim should inquire on the cost.
If a day two pick is the asking price, I do not see why the Cardinals should hesitate to acquire a talented young player. This move will add another young cover man with Marco Wilson and Tay Gowan!