Derrick Henry: NFL Legend? He’s Going for Top 10 in Yards and TDs

Derrick Henry: Chasing Records and Leaving His Mark in the NFL

Derrick Henry, the star running back for the Baltimore Ravens, has proven to be much more than just a player; he is an unstoppable force on the field. His admiration for LaDainian Tomlinson, whom he idolized as a child, drove him to forge his own path, adapting to his imposing physique to become a legend at the running back position. With a height of 6’3″ and a weight of around 250 pounds, Henry is about to join his idol in a select club. He needs 1,317 rushing yards to rank among the top 10 all-time NFL rushers. This historic achievement would catapult him from his current number 19 position, surpassing seven Hall of Fame running backs, including names like Thurman Thomas and Jim Brown.

Henry’s impact goes beyond statistics. His teammates and coaches highlight his work ethic and relentless intensity. His competitive mindset sets him apart, whether training in the preseason or facing defenders on the field.

“The way his mentality is in a game, it’s actually really cool to watch because you see the difference between a normal guy in the league and someone who will be a Hall of Famer one day,” commented Justice Hill, Ravens backup running back.

Justice Hill, Ravens backup running back

In his first season with the Ravens, alongside quarterback Lamar Jackson, Henry averaged 113 yards per game, the second-best mark of his nine-year career. If he maintains that pace, he could enter the top 10 running backs in the league before the Thanksgiving game against the Cincinnati Bengals. As Henry climbs the ranks of NFL running backs, the debate about his place among the best in history will intensify. His coach, John Harbaugh, considers him in the same category as Jim Brown and other greats like Barry Sanders and Walter Payton.

Last season, Henry proved that his best days are not behind him. He accumulated 1,921 rushing yards and set a personal record with an average of 5.9 yards per carry. In addition, his 16 rushing touchdowns were a record for the Ravens and tied for the league lead. Currently, Henry shares the sixth historical place for career touchdowns with Jim Brown, with 106 scores. In the red zone, his effectiveness is notable, with 86 touchdowns within the 20-yard line since the year 2000, ranking third in the league.

“First, he’s big; he’s explosive; he’s very competitive,” said Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken, on Henry’s effectiveness in the red zone. “For his size, he plays with great vision and pad level, so that’s exactly what you want there, because you’re not going to be able to block everybody. You’re going to have to break tackles with your arms. You’re going to have to get some yards on your own, which he certainly is capable of doing.”

Todd Monken, Ravens offensive coordinator

If Henry maintains his career touchdown average, he could surpass Walter Payton and approach Adrian Peterson on the all-time list. Regarding the possibility of Henry surpassing Emmitt Smith as the all-time leading rusher, Henry is cautious. However, with Jackson by his side, he has experienced a resurgence, which could accelerate his path to the top. Henry has shown no signs of slowing down. Last season, he ran for the most yards by a player aged 30 or older, surpassing Tiki Barber’s previous record. To the question of how much longer he will play, Henry’s answer is clear: “When I feel it’s time, I’ll quit.” For now, he doesn’t see that moment on the near horizon.