The Baltimore Ravens’ acquisition of Derrick Henry has ignited excitement and speculation about his potential impact in the 2024 NFL season. Could the veteran running back achieve a historic year in Baltimore?
The Ravens made a significant move this offseason, signing former Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry to a two-year, $16 million contract. This addition bolsters Baltimore’s already potent rushing attack, pairing Henry with quarterback Lamar Jackson, a dynamic duo that promises to keep opposing defenses on their heels.
Henry Poised for a Career Renaissance in Baltimore
Pro Football Focus fantasy analyst Kate Magdziuk boldly predicts that Henry could have a historic fantasy football season, potentially joining an elite group of running backs who have scored 300+ fantasy points at age 30 or older. While some believe Henry’s prime is behind him, his move to Baltimore suggests otherwise. The Ravens’ offensive scheme, built around a dominant run game, provides the perfect environment for Henry to thrive.
Comparing the Titans and Ravens Offenses
The stark contrast between the Titans and Ravens’ offensive performance in 2023 underscores the potential for Henry’s resurgence. The Titans ranked 27th in points and 28th in total yards, while the Ravens ranked 4th and 6th, respectively. Furthermore, the Ravens led the league in rushing attempts and yards, a testament to their commitment to the run. In contrast, the Titans ranked 20th in rushing attempts and 17th in rushing yards.
The Ravens’ Offensive Powerhouse
Baltimore’s offensive prowess extends beyond rushing. With Lamar Jackson at the helm, defenses face the daunting task of containing both a mobile quarterback and a powerful running back. This two-pronged attack will force opponents to make difficult choices, potentially opening up opportunities for both Henry and Jackson to excel. The Ravens’ established run-first identity seamlessly integrates Henry’s skillset, making him a natural fit in their offensive scheme.
Henry’s Health: The Key Factor
The biggest question mark surrounding Henry is his durability. At 30 years old, and with a heavy workload throughout his career, he carries an increased risk of injury. He has led the league in rushing attempts four times in his eight seasons, including twice in the last two years. If Henry can maintain his health, he has the potential for a remarkable season.
A Look at the Numbers
To put Henry’s potential into perspective, he amassed just over 218 fantasy points in 2023 with the Titans. While impressive, this falls short of the 300-point threshold. However, considering the Ravens’ superior offensive environment and commitment to the run, Henry’s chances of reaching this milestone significantly increase. Only four running backs aged 30 or older have achieved this feat: Walter Payton, Charlie Garner, Priest Holmes, and Tiki Barber.
Conclusion: A Season of High Expectations
Derrick Henry’s arrival in Baltimore marks a new chapter in his career. The combination of his powerful running style and the Ravens’ offensive system creates a recipe for success. If Henry can stay healthy, he could be on the verge of a historic season, cementing his legacy as one of the NFL’s premier running backs. Will he join the elite group of 300+ point scorers at age 30 or older? Only time will tell.
