Saskatchewan Roughriders have announced the re-signing of American defensive back Amari Henderson, ahead of his impending free agency in February. The terms of the extension have not been disclosed.
At 6-foot-1 and 182 pounds, Henderson has been an integral part of the Roughriders’ defense for the past two seasons (2022-2023) since joining the team in January 2022. Throughout his stint in green and white, the defensive back has participated in 29 games, recording 77 defensive tackles, one tackle for a loss, two interceptions, 10 pass knockdowns, and one fumble recovery.
In the 2023 season, Henderson, then 26, delivered a standout performance that earned him PFF’s Coverage Player of the Week during Week 10. His efforts were highlighted by allowing only two receptions for a loss of two yards throughout the game.
Before his time with the Roughriders, Henderson began his professional career in the NFL. He commenced as an undrafted free agent with the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2020, where he was a part of their practice squad. In 2021, he took up a brief stint with the Minnesota Vikings, where he appeared in a preseason game.
Henderson’s football journey started at Wake Forest University, North Carolina, where he played college football for five seasons (2015-2019). In his 46 games for Wake Forest, his senior year accolades included a Second-Team All-ACC selection by Phil Steele. That year, he accomplished 40 defensive tackles, four interceptions, 14 passes defended, and a fumble recovery. Notably, his four interceptions ranked second in the ACC, while his 14 passes defended placed him fifth. These performances secured him an invitation to the NFLPA Bowl following his senior season.
Upon completing his college career, Henderson left a lasting impression at Wake Forest. His statistics include 169 defensive tackles, and he ranks fourth in school history with 48 passes defended. Furthermore, his seven interceptions and 41 pass knockdowns place him third in the school’s historical leaderboard for pass knockdowns.
Henderson’s extended tenure with the Saskatchewan Roughriders is set to build upon his achievements while supporting the team’s defensive roster as they prepare for upcoming challenges.
