As of 2024, Derrick Henry is the starting running back for the Ravens after a number of running backs signed fast free agency deals. Thinking back on his Baltimore deal, he said it was where he wanted to go.
“To be clear, I always considered Baltimore to be my top choice,” Henry stated in a “Jim Rome Show” visit. “I’ve always wanted to go there. And as I previously mentioned, I was aware that trade conversations [during the season] were almost certain to occur, but I wasn’t sure if they still felt that way once free agency began until I spoke with my agent to find out the truth.
The Ravens were still among the top contenders for the former player who won offensive MVP. In little time at all, the player and the team hammered out a two-year contract worth up to $20 million, giving Baltimore a new lead back. Given that he spends the offseason in Dallas and that Tony Pollard has left the team, Henry had considered signing a deal that would have sent him to the Cowboys. But the Cowboys never pursued a contract, so the 30-year-old was free to sign with the Ravens, a team that is well-known for its run-first approach.
Henry continued, “I just thought that suited with their culture and all they stand for.””It seems to fit my playing style, and I had the feeling that it was meant to be at some point. Have you ever had the feeling that something is meant to be, regardless of the circumstances? I had that feeling with Baltimore.
Two-time running champion Henry will start at quarterback for the Ravens in 2024 after Gus Edwards was cut and J.K. Dobbins remained unsigned well into free agency. Though the latter is recovering from an ACL tear, the squad does have Justice Hill and Keaton Mitchell on the roster. Consequently, it’s possible that the Ravens will need to sign a backfield player later this month.
According to the Ravens website, general manager Eric DeCosta said during a news conference on Tuesday that there is a “high probability” Baltimore drafts a running back this year. As it stands, other positions like edge rusher, cornerback, and offensive line represent more pressing roster priorities. However, the Ravens will have nine selections, so they can add a rookie to the team’s new-look backfield behind Henry on Day 2 or 3.
