Derrick Henry Joins Ravens: Freight Train Headed to Baltimore
The Baltimore Ravens have just added a freight train to their backfield. In a move that is sure to bolster their already formidable rushing attack, the team has agreed to terms with former Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry on a two-year, $16 million contract, with the potential to reach $20 million and $9 million guaranteed.
Henry, a four-time Pro Bowler and two-time rushing champion, departs the Titans after eight seasons and joins the reigning AFC North champions in their quest for a Super Bowl title. The 30-year-old running back’s arrival in Baltimore promises to complement the game-breaking speed and elusiveness of quarterback Lamar Jackson, forming a dynamic one-two punch in the Ravens’ backfield.
During his tenure with the Titans from 2016 to 2023, Henry established himself as one of the league’s premier ground threats. His standout performances include a 195-yard masterclass against the Ravens in the 2019 playoffs, leading Tennessee to an upset victory over the then top-seeded Baltimore squad in the AFC Divisional Round.
Now, Henry finds himself on the other side of that equation, donning the Ravens’ purple and black uniform in the hopes of pushing them a step further in their Super Bowl aspirations. After falling short in last season’s AFC Championship Game against the eventual champion Kansas City Chiefs, the addition of Henry could provide the missing piece to the Ravens’ championship puzzle.
Over the years, the Ravens’ running back room has been plagued by injuries, with players like J.K. Dobbins, Gus Edwards, Keaton Mitchell, and others struggling to stay healthy. Henry, who has played 33 regular-season games over the past two seasons and led the NFL in carries in each of those campaigns, brings a much-needed dose of durability and consistency to the backfield.
While questions may linger about how much tread remains on Henry’s tires, the Ravens are betting that the veteran’s presence will provide the backfield boost needed to push them over the top. Jackson has led the team in rushing in each of the past three seasons, but Baltimore hasn’t had a running back cross the 1,000-yard mark since 2014. Henry, a five-time 1,000-yard rusher, including the past two campaigns, will be looked upon to remedy that drought.
As the 2023 season approaches, the Ravens have made a bold move to bolster their offensive firepower. With Henry joining forces with Jackson and the rest of the team’s offensive weapons, Baltimore’s backfield has taken on a formidable new dimension, one that could propel them to the ultimate prize – a Lombardi Trophy.