John Henderson, known for his imposing presence on the field, played as a defensive tackle in the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 9, 1979, in Nashville, Tennessee, Henderson's journey to professional football began at Pearl-Cohn Comprehensive High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, where he played college football for the Tennessee Volunteers.
During his time at Tennessee, Henderson became a standout player, earning the Outland Trophy in 2000, which is awarded to the best interior lineman in college football. His performance in college caught the attention of NFL scouts, and he was subsequently selected in the first round of the 2002 NFL Draft by the Jacksonville Jaguars, with the ninth overall pick.
Henderson's NFL career commenced with the Jaguars, where he quickly established himself as a dominant force on the defensive line. Standing at 6 feet 7 inches and weighing over 330 pounds, his size and strength made him a formidable opponent for offensive lines. Throughout his tenure with the Jaguars, Henderson was known for his ability to disrupt the opposing team's offense, particularly in stopping the run.
In his rookie season, Henderson made an immediate impact, recording 53 tackles and 6.5 sacks. His performance earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team. Over the next several years, he continued to be a vital part of the Jaguars' defense, forming a powerful duo with fellow defensive tackle Marcus Stroud. Together, they were instrumental in the Jaguars' defensive success during the mid-2000s.
Henderson's career with the Jaguars spanned eight seasons, during which he was selected to the Pro Bowl twice, in 2004 and 2006. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and his effectiveness in run defense were key elements of his game. In 2007, he helped lead the Jaguars to a playoff berth, where they advanced to the divisional round.
In 2010, Henderson signed with the Oakland Raiders, where he played for two seasons. Although his role with the Raiders was more limited compared to his time with the Jaguars, he continued to contribute as a veteran presence on the defensive line. Henderson's career in the NFL concluded after the 2011 season.
Throughout his professional career, Henderson was known for his intense playing style and his ability to motivate his teammates. His pre-game ritual, which involved being slapped in the face by a team trainer to get fired up, became a well-known aspect of his persona.
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