Every NFL team wants to find blue-chip, shutdown corners who can take away an opposing team’s top receiver, and make quarterbacks pay for testing their side of the field.
If your favorite team is looking for that kind of player in the first round of the 2020 NFL draft, Florida’s CJ Henderson just might be their man.
One of the top prospects at his position in this year’s draft class, Henderson recently spoke exclusively with Draft Wire about his decision to leave school early, how playing for the Gators and in the SEC prepared him for the pro level, and what kind of impact he’s going to have in the NFL.
JM: You decided to forego your senior season and declare for the 2020 NFL draft. What led to that decision?
CJH: I just felt like the three years I spent at Florida prepared me well for the challenge ahead. I feel like I’m ready to take that next step. I enjoyed my three years there but that’s why I made the decision. They did such a good job preparing me for what’s next. I’m ready to take the next step.
JM: What specifically about the program down at Florida helped prepare you for what’s next?
CJH: They treat it like an NFL program. Our off-season training programs are very intense. The way our coaches prepare us, we practice like pros. They’re always doing everything they can to get us ready for the next level. Playing in the SEC presents a big challenge as well. I think the SEC is a great conference to play in if you’re trying to prepare for the next level.
JM: This pre-draft process you’re currently going through can be a tough one. What are you most excited about?
CJH: I’m really excited for draft day to arrive. I’m very excited to get drafted to whichever team decides to take a chance on me. I’m excited to meet new people throughout this process. Wherever I land will be the right place for me. It’s an exciting time.
JM: Is there a coverage scheme you feel most comfortable in?
CJH: Not really. I think I played well in every scheme we played at Florida. I would say that I have the ability to thrive in any scheme. My future team can feel comfortable knowing that I can thrive in any scheme. I enjoy playing man coverage but it’s really not a big deal to me.
JM: How do you cover a bigger receiver differently than you would a smaller, shiftier guy?
CJH: I think you have to get your hands on those smaller guys. You need to find a way to slow them down. They’re usually the more shiftier type as you said. Those bigger guys want you to play their game. They wanna bait you into being physical with them. You just have to be smart and play your game. It all comes down to technique and understanding the situation that you’re in.
JM: Playing in the SEC is a difficult task, as you said. Who are some of the best wide receivers you’ve ever covered?
CJH: I would just point to my teammates at Florida. Those guys were always a tough cover in practice. We have a great group of guys in that receiver room. Guys like Van Jefferson, Tyrie Cleveland and Trevon Grimes come to mind. Every single one of them is a tough cover, really.
JM: The NFL Scouting Combine is fast approaching. Are you looking forward to any of the drills in particular?
CJH: I’m looking forward to each and every one of them really. I’m especially excited to run the 40-yard dash and go through the position drills. Hopefully I surprise some people out there.
JM: Is there an NFL quarterback that you’d love to intercept?
CJH: If I had to choose just one, it would probably be Patrick Mahomes. It’s self-explanatory. He’s a great quarterback and he’s fresh off a Super Bowl victory where he was named the MVP of the game as well. Intercepting him would be a pretty big deal.
JM: What are three traits that a successful cornerback must possess?
CJH: You definitely have to be a competitor. You can’t play this position if you’re not a competitor. Like flat out, sorry, this isn’t for you. You have to have some technique about you as well. Being an athlete is great and all, but you need to have some technical ability to your game. Lastly I would just say the knowledge of the game. You have to go out there and understand your responsibilities. You need to have a high football I.Q.
JM: You’ve had a lot of great teammates throughout your time at Florida, but I’m gonna put you on the spot. If you were headed into battle tomorrow and could only bring one with you, who would it be and why?
CJH: Just one, huh? Boy, that’s tough. I’d probably go with Shawn Davis. He’s a defensive back, as well. I’d pick him because I know that we’d die for each other. I feel that way about all my teammates. I’d choose him for sure.
JM: What kind of impact is CJ Henderson gonna make at the next level?
CJH: CJ Henderson is gonna make a huge impact in the NFL. Whatever team picks me up is getting a competitor first and foremost. I’m the ultimate competitor who can bring some leadership into the locker room. I’m a quiet guy that loves to lead by example. I’m excited to bring the best out of my teammates. I just wanna get out here and compete.
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