Free-agent linebacker Erin Henderson will visit the Jets, according to Brian Costello of the New York Post (via Twitter). The 28-year-old Maryland product looked as if he was prepared to establish himself as one of the better linebackers in the league in 2013, when he posted 112 tackles, four sacks, and two interceptions for the Vikings in just 14 games. He also graded out as the 19th-best inside linebacker out of 55 qualifiers in 2013, according to Pro Football Focus’ advanced metrics (subscription required). Henderson struggled in pass coverage but was evaluated as an above-average performer in ever other facet of the game, turning in a particularly strong showing against the run.
However, as our Luke Adams wrote last week, Henderson has been arrested multiple times for DUI-related incidents, and he did not play at all in 2014 after his latest bout of legal issues. But his upside is still intriguing, and he has garnered recent interest from the 49ers and worked out for the Chiefs back in January.
He had a private workout in Arizona last weekend separate from the inaugural veterans combine, and representatives from a number of teams attended those workouts. It seems, then, that Henderson will get another chance to prove himself in the league, the only question is which club will be willing to take that chance. The Jets can now be counted as a potential destination.