The Cincinnati Bengals have signed defensive end KJ Henry to their practice squad, as announced on Friday. This move follows Henry being waived earlier in the week to make space for free agent defensive tackle Lawrence Guy on the team’s 53-man roster.

Henry was originally acquired by the Bengals off waivers from the Washington Commanders after the final roster cuts. Interestingly, the Bengals will face the Commanders in their upcoming Monday night game.

During his two appearances with Cincinnati, Henry played 11 defensive snaps, recording one quarterback pressure and earning a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 63.3. His performance appeared solid enough to keep him on the active roster. However, due to a series of injuries at defensive tackle, the Bengals were forced to make difficult roster decisions. The team’s defensive end position is also expected to become more competitive once Myles Murphy is activated off injured reserve.

Despite being waived, Henry will remain with the Bengals on the practice squad, where he will continue to develop in his second NFL season.

Whether KJ Henry will be promoted to the Cincinnati Bengals’ active roster again will depend on several factors, including his performance in practice, the team’s injury situation, and roster needs. Since the Bengals originally waived him to make room for free agent defensive tackle Lawrence Guy, it indicates they had an immediate need at that position.

Henry’s future promotion could depend on:

1. **Performance in Practice:** If Henry continues to impress coaches with his work on the practice squad, he might be in line for a promotion if the Bengals need depth at defensive end.

2. **Injuries:** Injuries to players on the defensive line, especially among defensive ends, could create an opening for Henry to rejoin the active roster.

3. **Depth Adjustments:** With Myles Murphy expected to return from injured reserve soon, the depth chart at defensive end could get crowded. However, roster adjustments based on performance or other injuries across the team could lead to Henry’s promotion.

While there’s no guarantee, Henry being kept on the practice squad allows the Bengals to call him up quickly if needed.

KJ Henry, like other players on NFL practice squads, can remain there for varying periods depending on the team’s needs and his performance. Here are key factors that affect how long Henry might stay on the Cincinnati Bengals’ practice squad:

1. **Practice Squad Eligibility:** Players can be on the practice squad for up to three seasons, and there are specific eligibility rules based on how much experience they have. Henry, being in his second NFL season, is eligible for the practice squad without restrictions.

2. **Promotion Opportunities:** Henry can be promoted to the active roster if the Bengals face injuries or performance issues on the defensive line, especially at defensive end. The team can elevate him for up to three games without having to sign him permanently to the 53-man roster. After those games, he would have to be signed to the roster or returned to the practice squad.

3. **Team Roster Adjustments:** His stay on the practice squad depends on the team’s roster moves and injuries, particularly to other defensive linemen. If someone gets hurt or underperforms, Henry could be promoted sooner.

4. **Poaching by Other Teams:** Other NFL teams can sign Henry off the Bengals’ practice squad at any time, as long as they place him on their 53-man active roster.

While there’s no set time limit, Henry’s stay on the practice squad will depend on how quickly opportunities arise for him to move up or if other teams express interest in signing him.