Derrick Henry’s dominance continues to spark discussions across the NFL, with an AFC executive recently sharing a cautious but blunt take on his future. Despite leading the Baltimore Ravens to success in 2024 and nearly topping ESPN’s running back rankings for 2025, questions linger about how long he can sustain his elite form.
At 31 years old, Henry’s durability and work ethic remain exceptional, but age is often unforgiving for running backs in the league. Last season, Henry defied expectations by rushing for 1,921 yards and leading the NFL with 16 touchdowns, averaging a career-best 5.9 yards per carry.
NFL, Derrick Henry
Feb 6, 2025; New Orleans, LA, USA; Derrick Henry on the red carpet before Super Bowl LIX NFL Honors at Saenger Theatre. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
His performance silenced skeptics and earned him a historic two-year, $30 million extension with $25 million guaranteed. This not only highlighted his value to the Ravens but also underscored his ability to thrive despite the heavy workload accumulated over nine seasons.
The AFC executive acknowledged Henry’s elite body composition and work ethic but suggested his production may eventually decline. With over 2,300 career carries, Henry ranks 32nd in NFL history for rushing attempts, a testament to his durability but also a potential red flag. Yet, his ability to wear down defenses and break long runs late in games shows no immediate signs of waning.
AFC Executive Gets Real About NFL Running Back Derrick Henry
NFL, Derrick Henry
Oct 21, 2024; Tampa, Florida, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) runs the ball in for a touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the second half at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-Imagn Images
Just recently, an AFC executive dropped a blunt take about Henry and is performance in the league. This can be seen in an analysis by Jeremy Fowler for ESPN.
Henry’s 830 rushing yards after contact in 2024 — his first season with the Ravens — were 191 more than the next-closest player (Josh Jacobs). His 3,634 yards after contact since 2020 is 945 more than the second-ranked player (also Jacobs). All of this is nothing new. Tackling Henry has forever been an arduous task. But coming off 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns, Henry appears averse to the running back cliff to which most 30-somethings succumb.
“He’ll slow down at some point, but he’s got elite body composition and elite work ethic,” an AFC executive said. “He’s a monster. No one wants to tackle him, and then when he wears you down, that’s when he breaks off that big run.”
Somehow, Henry is proving more efficient with age. Henry’s 5.9 yards per rush last season represented the highest mark by a player with 250 carries in a season since Adrian Peterson in 2012 (6.0). And his 13 career games with 150 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns ties Jim Brown for the most in NFL history.
Henry’s ranking as the No. 2 running back in ESPN’s 2025 poll reflects his continued dominance. Only Philadelphia Eagles’ Saquon Barkley ranks ahead of him, and Henry’s resurgence after falling to ninth in 2024 proves he remains a top-tier talent. Many believe his physicality and consistency will keep him competitive, even as he faces the challenges of aging in a demanding position.
NFL, Derrick Henry
Nov 17, 2024; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) runs against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the third quarter at Acrisure Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images
As the 2025 season approaches, the focus will be on whether Henry can maintain or exceed his current level of play. If he continues to defy expectations, he could cement his legacy as one of the NFL’s all-time greats. While doubts persist about his longevity, Derrick Henry’s remarkable career suggests he thrives on proving doubters wrong.
NFL, Derrick Henry
Jan 19, 2025; Orchard Park, New York, USA; Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry (22) warms up before a 2025 AFC divisional round game against the Buffalo Bills at Highmark Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
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