The Baltimore Ravens surprised many by signing veteran running back Derrick Henry in free agency. Many speculated that Henry would join the Dallas Cowboys, a team seemingly in need of a powerful running back. However, the Cowboys never contacted Henry, a fact that surprised the player himself.
Derrick Henry in a Ravens uniform.
Henry’s Surprise at Lack of Interest from Dallas
In a recent interview on The Pivot podcast, Henry discussed his free agency experience and expressed his bewilderment at the Cowboys’ lack of interest. He stated, “They ain’t holla at me at all… It would’ve been crazy. I thought it’d been some type of reach out.” Henry admitted to being confused, expecting at least some conversation with the Cowboys organization. He ultimately concluded that Baltimore was the “perfect spot” for him.
The Cowboys’ Salary Cap Dilemma
The Cowboys’ decision not to pursue Henry initially seemed perplexing, especially considering the departure of Tony Pollard and the relative inexperience of their current running back corps. However, a closer look at the Cowboys’ financial situation reveals the likely reason.
Dallas faced significant salary cap constraints entering free agency. With star players like Dak Prescott, CeeDee Lamb, and Micah Parsons seeking lucrative contract extensions, the team had limited resources to spend on other positions. This financial reality likely precluded the Cowboys from offering a competitive contract to a high-priced veteran like Henry.
The Ravens’ Calculated Gamble
The Ravens, on the other hand, were willing to invest in Henry, signing him to a two-year, $16 million deal. While Henry’s age (30) and declining yards-per-carry average (4.2 in 2023) raised some concerns, the Ravens clearly believed his power and experience could significantly bolster their offense. Baltimore’s willingness to take on Henry’s contract underscores their commitment to building a strong running game.
A Missed Opportunity for Dallas?
The Cowboys’ decision to pass on Henry could be seen as a missed opportunity. While financial constraints undoubtedly played a role, the team’s lack of a proven lead running back remains a potential weakness. Whether Deuce Vaughn and Rico Dowdle can adequately fill the void left by Pollard remains to be seen. Time will tell if the Cowboys’ decision to prioritize other positions over a veteran running back will prove to be a wise one.
In conclusion, while many expected Derrick Henry to land in Dallas, the Cowboys’ salary cap limitations and the Ravens’ willingness to invest led to Henry’s surprising arrival in Baltimore. The move represents a significant gamble for both teams, with the Ravens hoping Henry can regain his peak form and the Cowboys banking on their young running backs to exceed expectations.
