The Cowboys might have discovered a valuable player to help them navigate their injury troubles.
The Dallas Cowboys are facing a tough schedule ahead, and they might be without Micah Parsons and DeMarcus Lawrence for several games.
Parsons has effectively ruled himself out for Sunday’s game against the Steelers but remains hopeful to return before the bye week. In contrast, Lawrence is anticipated to be sidelined for a longer period due to a foot injury and is likely headed for injured reserve.
Jerry Jones mentioned on 105.3 The Fan that the Cowboys do not plan to pursue a major trade to compensate for the injuries to Parsons and Lawrence. Instead, they will look within their current roster, considering players like Chauncey Golston and Tyrus Wheat, and will also check practice squads for possible additions.
It didn’t take long for Dallas to secure a new player; on Tuesday, the team signed K.J. Henry from the Bengals’ practice squad, according to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The contract is for two years, allowing Henry to join the Cowboys’ active roster.
Cowboys sign pass rusher K.J. Henry off the Bengals practice squad
Henry was selected in the fifth round by the Commanders last year. He had a decent preseason but didn’t make the 53-man roster. During 48 pass-rush snaps, he recorded 10 pressures, one sack, and a 20.8 pass-rush win rate, according to Pro Football Focus.
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
While this addition might not excite Cowboys fans significantly, Henry is eager for playing time and should get ample opportunities in Dallas. The 25-year-old has only played 10 snaps for the Bengals this season, yet he still managed to generate a quarterback pressure. He expressed his dissatisfaction on social media regarding being cut by Washington and his limited playing time.
An advantage is that Henry has worked with defensive line coach Jeff Zgonina, who is known for his intensity and accountability.
Although this isn’t the major trade fans were hoping for, the Cowboys were unlikely to acquire a player on a large contract.
With Parsons and Lawrence injured, Henry is expected to be just one of the defensive end additions. Given the circumstances and the short timeframe, the former Clemson standout represents the best option Dallas could secure from the practice squad. It’s important to note that this decision reflects the efforts of vice president of player personnel Will McClay and the scouting team, rather than Jerry Jones.
With the Cowboys lacking pass rushers, Henry is likely to play a significant role on Sunday night, even with his recent signing.
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