K.J. Henry’s NFL Journey Hits Another Hurdle as Steelers Release Edge Rusher

The NFL is a league of fleeting opportunities, where talent meets timing — and sometimes, even highly touted players struggle to find a permanent home. On Tuesday, K.J. Henry, the 2023 fifth-round pick out of Clemson, became the latest example, as the Pittsburgh Steelers released the defensive end from their practice squad, just days after signing him.

Henry’s journey through the NFL has been a whirlwind. The Steelers signed him on October 10, hoping to bolster their pass rush depth, but his tenure was short-lived. Pittsburgh made room for a series of roster moves, including re-signing inside linebacker Mark Robinson and adding slot cornerback Daequan Hardy, who replaces the recently released Beanie Bishop.

A Nomadic NFL Career

Henry’s professional career has been marked by frequent stops across multiple franchises. After being drafted by the Washington Commanders in the fifth round of the 2023 NFL Draft, he spent just one year with the team. Shortly afterward, he joined the Cincinnati Bengals, and since then, he has had brief stints with the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, Cleveland Browns, and now the Steelers.

In terms of production, Henry’s career stats are modest but noteworthy for a player bouncing between teams:

• Tackles: 22

• Sacks: 2.5

• Pass deflections: 2

For a 23-year-old edge rusher, the potential remains evident, but the challenge has been finding stability and consistent playing time in a league where competition is relentless.

Clemson Roots and College Accolades

Henry’s football journey began in Clemmons, North Carolina, before he made his mark at Clemson University from 2018 to 2022. At Clemson, he was part of the Tigers’ 2018 National Championship team and finished his collegiate career as a second-team All-ACC selection in 2022, signaling his readiness for the professional ranks.

Despite college success, translating that production to the NFL has proven difficult. Like many defensive players drafted outside the first rounds, Henry has had to navigate a league where roster spots are limited, and positional competition is fierce.

Steelers Roster Moves and Context

The Steelers’ release of Henry comes amid a flurry of roster adjustments, as the team fine-tunes depth ahead of a critical midseason stretch. By bringing back Mark Robinson, a familiar and versatile linebacker, and adding Daequan Hardy at slot corner, Pittsburgh is clearly prioritizing immediate positional needs over developmental prospects like Henry.

Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin has long preached the value of competition and adaptability, but the reality of the NFL is that sometimes even talented players are left searching for their next opportunity.

“K.J. is a talented player,” Tomlin said earlier this season. “He’s got the tools, the size, the instincts. But right now, we have to make decisions that give our team the best chance to win. That’s the nature of the business.”

The Challenges of Staying in the League

Henry’s story highlights the difficulties young players face, especially those drafted outside the top rounds. Even with impressive college pedigrees, the transition to the NFL can be unforgiving. From injuries to team fit, timing, and scheme compatibility, the margin for error is razor-thin.

Yet, for Henry, the journey isn’t over. His brief stints with multiple teams demonstrate that franchises see potential, even if he hasn’t yet secured a long-term role. Other players with similar early-career instability have gone on to find success when paired with the right scheme and coaching staff.

Analyst Jordan Schultz noted:

“K.J. Henry has all the physical tools — length, speed, and strength. The challenge is finding a system and coaching staff that can maximize his abilities and allow him to develop without being rushed.”

A Career Still in Progress

While some may see multiple releases as a setback, Henry’s perseverance should not be underestimated. He’s navigated the high-pressure world of the NFL, adjusting to new playbooks, teammates, and cities, all while maintaining the focus needed to continue competing at the highest level.

For fans of Clemson and followers of young defensive talent, Henry remains a player to watch. His ability to bounce back and carve out a permanent role in the league could make for one of the more compelling redemption arcs of the 2024 season.

What’s Next for Henry?

At 23, Henry’s NFL career is still in its early chapters. Teams looking for edge-rush depth or a situational pass rusher may view him as a low-risk, high-upside addition. With his college pedigree and flashes of production, there’s a reasonable chance that another franchise could give him the opportunity to stick and contribute on the field.

As Henry’s professional path continues, his story serves as a reminder of the NFL’s brutal competitiveness: talent alone doesn’t guarantee stability, but resilience and adaptability can keep the dream alive.

“It’s about staying ready,” Henry said in a brief interview after joining the Steelers. “Every opportunity is a chance to prove yourself. I’m going to keep working, keep learning, and keep pushing to get back on the field.”

Conclusion

K.J. Henry’s release by the Steelers is the latest twist in an ongoing professional journey marked by brief stops, perseverance, and flashes of potential. From Clemson glory to navigating the churn of the NFL, Henry’s story embodies both the promise and the harsh realities faced by many young players striving to find their place in the league.

While his time with Pittsburgh was short, it’s clear Henry’s career is far from over. For now, he joins a long list of talented athletes waiting for the right fit — a team, a scheme, and a moment to shine. And for fans and analysts alike, the question remains: Where will K.J. Henry land next, and can he finally find a home where his potential translates into lasting NFL success?