Can Derrick Henry Inspire a Ravens Super Bowl Run?
The Baltimore Ravens’ recent offseason signing of Derrick Henry on a two-year, $16 million contract has generated excitement and raised a critical question: Can the superstar running back inspire a Super Bowl charge for Baltimore? After a distinguished career with the Tennessee Titans, Henry has joined the Ravens, bringing with him an exceptional track record, incredible physicality, and a knack for defying traditional running back expectations. His arrival adds a powerful layer to an already formidable offense, sparking speculation about Baltimore’s potential as a legitimate Super Bowl contender.
The Derrick Henry Impact: Why This Signing Made Sense for Baltimore
Derrick Henry’s signing made perfect sense for the Ravens, who have consistently excelled in the running game. In an NFL era dominated by committee backfields and dual-threat running backs, Henry has proven to be an outlier with his durability, production, and pure rushing prowess. Over the last six seasons, Henry has surpassed 1,000 rushing yards five times, including a remarkable 2,000-yard season in 2020. Even in the injury-shortened 2021 season, he managed 937 yards in just eight games. Henry’s track record also includes twice leading the league in rushing yards, topping the NFL in carries four times since 2019.
The Ravens’ decision to bring Henry into the fold speaks volumes about their intent to elevate their offensive game, especially when it comes to maintaining ground dominance. Though no longer part of Greg Roman’s run-heavy scheme, Henry’s presence gives Baltimore flexibility and firepower that will force opposing defenses to make tough choices. The question is no longer just about how to stop Derrick Henry; it’s about whether defenses can survive Baltimore’s multidimensional offensive attack with Henry in the lineup.
A New Offensive Landscape: Henry’s Role in the Todd Monken Offense
Baltimore’s offensive system has evolved under new offensive coordinator Todd Monken. Unlike the past, where the Ravens leaned heavily on the ground game, Monken’s scheme is designed to highlight quarterback Lamar Jackson’s passing abilities. This approach often utilizes three-receiver personnel groupings, creating a more balanced and dynamic attack that can shift seamlessly between passing and rushing.
With Henry in Baltimore, defenses now face a unique and challenging dilemma: stack the box to stop Henry’s relentless rushing or spread out to cover the Ravens’ capable receiving corps, including talents like Zay Flowers, Rashod Bateman, and Mark Andrews. In Tennessee, Henry was often the focal point of the offense, but in Baltimore, he could find even more success as part of a diversified attack where opposing defenses are forced into “pick-your-poison” situations.
Henry’s experience in Tennessee has shown he can handle being the offense’s centerpiece, but Baltimore’s setup will likely provide him with opportunities to thrive without carrying the entire load. In Monken’s system, Henry could achieve new levels of efficiency and explosiveness, especially when defenses focus on Jackson’s arm.
Balancing the Run and Pass: What Henry Brings to Baltimore’s Rushing Game
While Monken’s offense emphasizes passing, the Ravens haven’t abandoned the run. Last season, they ranked third in rush Expected Points Added (EPA) and led the league in rushing yards per game, thanks in large part to Jackson’s contributions as the NFL’s top rushing quarterback. However, Baltimore has not operated with a true “bell-cow” running back since the days of Ray Rice from 2009 to 2013. Despite their rushing success, they were stymied by the Kansas City Chiefs’ defensive schemes in last season’s playoffs, which exposed some gaps in Baltimore’s ability to maintain ground control.
Henry brings an answer to this challenge. With his experience and power running style, he can add a level of consistency and brute force to the Ravens’ running game that should help them overcome even the toughest defensive matchups. In the playoffs, where control of the line of scrimmage is often the deciding factor, Henry could be the key to unlocking Baltimore’s full offensive potential.
The Super Bowl Quest: Can Henry Be the Final Piece?
As the Ravens gear up for a potential Super Bowl run, the addition of Derrick Henry signals their commitment to competing at the highest level. The combination of Henry’s power running, Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities, and Monken’s versatile offensive scheme has the potential to make Baltimore one of the most dangerous teams in the league.
Henry’s experience, coupled with his proven ability to perform in high-stakes games, may just be the missing piece Baltimore needs. With a balanced offense that keeps defenses guessing, the Ravens are poised to make a serious push for the championship. If Henry can stay healthy and deliver the kind of performances he’s known for, Baltimore could find itself within reach of a Super Bowl title.
