Panthers CB CJ Henderson on declined fifth-year option: 'I got to go out and earn mine'
Earlier in the offseason, Carolina Panthers cornerback CJ Henderson received word that his fifth-year option was not going to be picked up by Scott Fitterer. But well into training camp, Henderson isn't letting his lack of a fifth-year option define his outlook on the type of player he can be in the 2023 season. "That it was […]
Earlier in the offseason, Carolina Panthers cornerback CJ Henderson received word that his fifth-year option was not going to be picked up by Scott Fitterer.
But well into training camp, Henderson isn't letting his lack of a fifth-year option define his outlook on the type of player he can be in the 2023 season.
"That it was a make-or-break year. I got to go out and earn mine, and my back is against the wall," the former first-round pick said. "I feel like that's when I do my best. There's an edge to me. A different edge."
The 2022 season was the best season to date for Henderson. He appeared in 17 games, starting 10 of them. He collected 58 tackles and two interceptions.
What makes this campaign so important for Henderson is the fact that throughout his career, he has dealt with injuries. He played in eight games during his rookie season. And in his second season, he played in 12.
Henderson was acquired in 2020 in a trade with Jacksonville that sent tight end Dan Arnold and a third-round pick out.
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Feature image via Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports.
