At 31 years old, Derrick Henry is still a top running back in the NFL. He and the Baltimore Ravens proved to be a match made in heaven in 2024, as he ran for 1,921 yards and a career-high 5.9 yards per attempt. His 18 total touchdowns were also a record for a single season in Ravens history.
The historic campaign earned him a new contract. He signed a two-year $30 million deal in May to remain in Baltimore through the 2027 season. His annual salary of $15 million per year is the third highest of any running back in the NFL. It is also a milestone for the position, earning one of the biggest pay days for a back over 30 years old in NFL history. However, the same old question is still being asked by some.
Nick Shook of NFL.com previewed Baltimore’s training camp, offering his perspective on key storylines heading into the biggest practices of the offseason. One of those storylines revolves around Henry. While he admits the five-time Pro Bowler is still at the top of his game, he poses the question that has challenged Henry for the past few seasons.
“Thanks to Henry's involvement, the Ravens were an offensive juggernaut last season, but at 31 years old, it is once again fair to wonder if that performance was Henry's last stand, or if he'll be just as effective again in an offense that has little (if any) reason to believe it won't be just as good in 2025,” Shook wrote.
Derrick Henry will have to shake off the age questions again in 2025
The doubts about whether an aging running back can still get it done will likely persist until the end of Henry’s career. It is fair to be concerned about his production. He is a one-in-a-million case. The injury bug usually takes a toll on most runners at this point, or they at least show minor signs of slowing down. None of that has occurred for Henry, and there are no signs signaling that it will take place in 2025.
Last year was the most efficient season of Henry’s career. He somehow got better. Another 2,000-yard campaign was within striking distance, and while he came up short, he could accomplish that goal this year, especially if he wants to star in an Adam Sandler movie. Along with that extra piece of motivation, his work ethic should keep him in elite form.
Henry takes care of his body like no other. His insane diet and workout routine are well-documented, and it is no wonder that he has kept up his production from year to year. Assuming he stays healthy, it should be business as usual.
The Ravens have endless ways to beat you. They developed into a lethal passing attack, and the combination of two-time MVP Lamar Jackson and Henry on the ground is unstoppable. It will be tough to match the pace that saw them eclipse 4,000 yards passing and 3,000 yards rushing in 2024. However, with new talent coming through the door like physical wideout DeAndre Hopkins and young players continuing to develop, another AFC North crown should be awaiting Baltimore in 2025.
