Steelers Signed KJ Henry to Practice Squad
The Pittsburgh Steelers added depth to their defensive unit by bringing back KJ Henry.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Football
Live Poll
Do you support your local team's decision to sign veteran depth players to the practice squad?
The Pittsburgh Steelers have signed defensive player KJ Henry to the team's practice squad. Henry returns to the organization after previously spending time on the roster and practice squad during the 2025 and 2026 seasons.
Why it matters
The signing provides the Steelers with additional defensive depth. Henry is currently expected to remain on the practice squad unless the team experiences injuries on the active roster.
KJ Henry brings professional experience including 15 regular season game appearances, three career starts, 22 total tackles, and 2.5 sacks to the practice squad. He was originally selected as a fifth-round draft pick in 2023.
The players
KJ Henry
He is a defensive player who entered the NFL as a fifth-round pick in 2023 and has played for several teams.
Pittsburgh Steelers
They are a professional football franchise based in Pittsburgh that competes in the AFC North division.
The details
Henry, who has previously spent time with the Washington Commanders, Cleveland Browns, and San Francisco 49ers, joins the Pittsburgh organization again after being released by the 49ers in August 2026. The move utilizes an open spot on the Steelers practice squad.
Timeline
KJ Henry was drafted by the Washington Commanders in 2023.
The Steelers first signed Henry to the practice squad in October 2025.
In January 2026, the team signed Henry to a Reserve/Future contract.
The Steelers released Henry from the roster in June 2026.
Henry was signed to the practice squad on October 6, 2026.
Season Trajectory
This transaction reflects the standard roster management strategy as teams look to bolster depth mid-season. By utilizing practice squad spots, the Steelers maintain competitive balance without requiring immediate active roster displacement.
Henry adds defensive depth to the practice unit and serves as an injury replacement option for the 53-man roster. His previous experience with the system may allow for a faster transition during team practice sessions.
The takeaway
Maintaining a deep practice squad is essential for teams to navigate the attrition of a long NFL season. Flexibility in personnel moves allows coaching staffs to quickly integrate experienced players when active roster injuries occur.
Further reading
For more updates on roster moves and team developments, follow our Football coverage.
Live Poll
Do you support your local team's decision to sign veteran depth players to the practice squad?
