Chris “Slim” Henry saved four human lives in December 2009. That’s how the story of Chris Henry needs to start on the receivers should be 37th birthday. Henry donated his organs upon his death; his lungs, kidney, heart, liver, pancreas and corneas were given to four lucky people. The story of Chris Henry is a rocky road. He was a fan favorite and was the triple threat with Chad Johnson and T.J Houshmanzadeh in that special 2005 season.
Henry had some demons and had run-ins with the law. In 2008 Marvin Lewis said that he had no interest in bringing Henry back to the team; months later he was re-signed back to the team on a 2-year deal. If there is one thing that Mike Brown is it’s compassionate and willing to try and help players. Pacman Jones is a true testament to that and Henry seemed to be following the same path.
As a receiver Henry only went over 500 receiving yards in one season (2006) but in his 2005 rookie season he caught 6 touchdowns followed up by 9 in 2006. The next three seasons were bumpy and he only played in 28 games. 2007 saw an eight game suspension which added to this total. Rather than go through the list of off-field issues I would rather just talk about how much potential Henry had.
He was loved by hit teammates and loved by his WR group. Chad had a moment in the end zone for Henry against the Giants after his passing, finishing it up with tears down his face:
Henry was a deep threat guy with serious wheels. He could handle the slot and the outside. It was found after his passing that he suffered from CTE and began the conversation of active players with the not-so-common disease that is likely caused from concussions. We miss you Slim and thank you for playing hard for us!