IU Commit Dontrae Henderson Talks about Coach Cignetti as Reason to Come to IU

Written by Ethan Roberts

Former James Madison commit Dontrae Henderson flipped his commitment to the Hoosiers Dec 17, following in the footsteps of Coach Curt Cignetti. 

The consensus three-star defensive back praised the coaching staff.

“I believe Coach Cig is a great coach and has great coaches around him to make IU strive and be a better team,” Henderson told the Hoosier Huddle. “With the right talent, which I feel like we’re getting, I feel like we can be a top team in the Big Ten.”

Henderson is a 6’1-170-pound defensive back who excels in pass coverage. Although IU was the only Power Five program to offer him a scholarship, he believes that he has plenty of assets to bring to the table.

“I feel like I bring a lockdown versatile defensive back to the team, and I can make the DB room and team better,” Henderson said. "I can work on perfecting my craft and just getting stronger, faster and smarter.”

He played his high school football for Julius L. Chambers in Charlotte, North Carolina. Last season he averaged 4.8 tackles per game and tallied 4 interceptions on the season. 

Henderson chose IU over James Madison, Coastal Carolina and other schools. He explained why IU was the perfect fit for him.

“The coaching staff and the relationships I have with them,” Henderson said. "I want to play on the big stage and showcase my talents for my family and my city.” 

Henderson is the fourth defensive back to join the recruiting class and one of a handful of former JMU commits to flip to IU.