The Cincinnati Bengals have faced challenges with their defensive line this season. Struggling to stop the run and generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks, the team has been hindered by injuries to key players like B.J. Hill and Sheldon Rankins, who have missed games due to various ailments.
Compounding these issues, Cam Sample is out for the year with a torn Achilles tendon, and Myles Murphy remains on injured reserve, yet to make an appearance in 2024. Given the current state of the defensive line, the Bengals are in need of additional depth, making the recent news particularly surprising and likely frustrating for fans.
According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, the Dallas Cowboys have signed defensive end K.J. Henry from the Bengals’ practice squad. Henry, a second-year player, appeared in 10 games for the Washington Commanders last season, recording 19 total tackles, four tackles for loss, two quarterback hits, two passes defended, and 1.5 sacks.
The #Cowboys are signing pass rusher K.J. Henry to a two-year deal (active roster) off the #Bengals practice squad, per sources.
Henry had 1.5 sacks last year for Washington.
Help on the way for depleted Cowboys pass rush.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) October 1, 2024
Released by Washington at the end of August, Henry was quickly claimed by Cincinnati. He has seen limited action this season, playing just 18 snaps for the Bengals, with seven of those on special teams. Now, he is expected to take on a larger role with the Cowboys, who are also dealing with injuries on their defensive line.
🤠🤠🤠🤠ðŸ¤
— KJ Henry (@thekjhenry) October 1, 2024
While Henry may not be a proven game-changer, he is a young edge rusher with potential. Given the Bengals’ struggles and injury woes, it’s likely they would have preferred to retain him for future opportunities on the field.
I just wanna Ball.
— KJ Henry (@thekjhenry) September 27, 2024
Following the announcement, Henry expressed his excitement about the move on social media, sharing a post filled with smiley-face emojis wearing cowboy hats. This came just days after he had voiced his eagerness to get back on the field. Unfortunately for the Bengals, it seems Henry’s chance will come in Dallas instead.
