Derrick Henry Is Proving Age Is Just a Number

At 31 years old, Derrick Henry has established a career that ranks him among the finest running backs in NFL history. There were widespread assumptions that his most productive years might be behind him after he shouldered an immense workload in 2024, where he carried the ball nearly 400 times. However, in Week 1 of the 2025 season, Henry made a compelling statement, reminding everyone why he is still revered as “King Henry.”

In a match against the Buffalo Bills, Henry demonstrated his remarkable combination of power and speed as he overpowered defenders. He executed an impressive 30-yard touchdown run, showcasing the explosive burst that originally propelled him to stardom. By the conclusion of the game, he amassed over 150 rushing yards and secured two touchdowns, demonstrating that he is still capable of dominating games. For a player of his age, such a performance is quite exceptional. Typically, most running backs experience a decline after reaching 30, yet Henry appeared as invigorated as ever.

Why the Ravens Need Henry

The Ravens require Henry to maintain his strength if they aspire to achieve a deep playoff run. Last year, Baltimore ranked among the top teams in terms of touchdowns scored, tying for the third most in the league. Lamar Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities—both as a passer and a runner—make the offense formidable. However, Henry’s power running contributes a vital balance to the Ravens’ attack. When opposing defenses focus on containing Jackson, Henry possesses the ability to exploit weaknesses between the tackles. If he continues to perform at the level he demonstrated in Week 1, Baltimore could develop one of the most formidable offenses in professional football.

In addition to his on-field talents, Henry infuses the team with leadership and resilience. Younger players, such as Zay Flowers, look up to him, and his relentless work ethic establishes a standard that resonates throughout the entire roster. In the course of a lengthy season, the presence of a veteran who understands the nuances of preparation and recovery is nearly as critical as the yards he accumulates on the field.

The Challenge Ahead Against Cleveland

The forthcoming challenge does not ease; in Week 2, Henry will confront the Cleveland Browns and their star defender, Myles Garrett. Garrett is recognized as one of the premier pass rushers in the NFL and is equally formidable against the run. His agility and strength enable him to penetrate the backfield swiftly, often disrupting plays before they can fully unfold. For Henry to thrive, the Ravens’ offensive line must create openings and effectively neutralize Garrett’s impact on the game.

Should Henry manage to once again defy the constraints of age and deliver a standout performance against Garrett and the Browns, it will serve as a testament to the league that he remains one of the most dangerous offensive assets in football. For the Ravens, this could be pivotal in affirming their status as serious Super Bowl contenders for the 2025 season.

-Insights from the Deep Dive Fantasy Football Podcast