Steelers Add Defensive Back Jack Henderson After Losing Rookie Safety
The Pittsburgh Steelers have brought in a new defensive back to bolster their practice squad following the recent departure of rookie safety Sebastian Castro.
Castro, an undrafted free agent, was signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ active roster last week, creating an opening on Pittsburgh’s practice squad. To fill that spot, the Steelers announced the signing of Jack Henderson, who previously worked out with the team during their Week 5 bye.
Henderson now joins fellow defensive backs Beanie Bishop Jr., D’Shawn Jamison, and Daryl Porter on the practice squad. However, with none of those players having much experience at the safety position, Henderson is expected to fill that specific role.
College Career and Pro Journey
Henderson began his college career at Southeastern Louisiana in 2020 (with the season played in spring 2021 due to COVID-19). In his debut year, he recorded 22 tackles and two interceptions in seven games, earning Third-Team All-Southland Conference honors.
He followed up with a strong 2021 campaign, starting all 13 games and posting 51 tackles and two interceptions, which earned him honorable mention in the All-Southland Conference. In 2022, Henderson had his most productive season with 90 tackles, two sacks, and two interceptions, landing on the All-Southland Conference First Team.
He transferred to Minnesota for the final stretch of his college career. In 2023, he started seven games, recording 59 tackles, a sack, and an interception. The following year, in 2024, he started 12 of 13 games, tallying 44 tackles, six sacks, and one interception.
After going undrafted, Henderson signed with the Carolina Panthers and appeared in preseason action, logging 86 snaps and three tackles, according to Pro Football Focus. He was released during final roster cuts and later signed to the Buccaneers’ practice squad before being released on September 23.
Now with Pittsburgh, Henderson will look to make the most of his opportunity as the team seeks depth and stability in their secondary.
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