If you're looking for a possible weakness on the Atlanta Falcons roster, it is the lack of proven depth in the secondary. Atlanta's biggest moves at the position were drafting safeties Billy Bowman and Xavier Watts. This led to an expectation that Bowman would be a possible answer for the slot corner position with Dee Alford coming off a rough 2024 season. Regardless, the point remains that the Falcons have extremely questionable depth at the position.
A concern the team is actively working to address with its latest signing, bringing in C.J. Henderson to compete. The veteran corner didn't live up to initial expectations, struggling with the Jacksonville Jaguars after being drafted in the first round. Henderson would spend time with the Panthers, Texans, and Steelers after flaming out in Jacksonville.
While the consistency has never been there for the former top prospect, there is still value in the signing. Perhaps Atlanta will prove to be the elusive fit that finally unlocks the corner's potential. This remains a long shot, but the Falcons have little to lose at this point in the preseason. Attempting to improve depth with a high upside signing is the right decision. One that has a chance to shake up the Falcons' lineup.
Free agent CB CJ Henderson, the former #Jaguars first-rounder, is planning to sign with the #Falcons, source said, pending his medical review.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) August 14, 2025
After Pittsburgh last year and the #Panthers before that, Henderson gets another shot in 2025. He picked ATL over several suitors. pic.twitter.com/uxvLULDSbm
Falcons Make Surprise Move Signing Corner C.J. Henderson
The signing in itself suggests the Falcons aren't completely happy with where the position currently sits. Signing Henderson provides a possible starting option or depth with plenty of experience. Much of this depends on how the veteran looks in the final two weeks of camp leading into the regular season.
It is a slight disadvantage starting this late in the year; however, Henderson is going to be given a great look and should benefit from preseason reps as the Falcons continue to debate how to build the secondary around A.J. Terrell and Jessie Bates.
Mike Hughes appears to be the only starter locked in besides this duo after returning on a team-friendly deal. The veteran corner wasn't as consistent as fans hoped, but did show a solid upside if the pieces around him are working as expected.
With this in mind, Henderson is coming into Atlanta with his most likely path being winning the fourth corner role. Earning a roster spot isn't going to be difficult, but working his way into the starting lineup will demand a surprising preseason performance. Unquestionably a story to keep an eye on as the regular season draws closer.