Derrick Henry’s Contract Extension: Why History Suggests the Ravens’ Veteran RB Will Thrive Again in His Age-31 Season
When Derrick Henry signed his contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens, it marked a significant moment not only for the franchise but also for one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history. The 6-foot-3, 247-pound powerhouse has proven to be one of the most effective and physical forces in the NFL since entering the league in 2016. As he approaches his age-31 season, some have questioned whether he can continue to dominate the way he has throughout his career, especially given the age-related decline typically seen in running backs. However, history suggests that Henry may very well defy the odds and continue his exceptional level of play.
In this article, we will delve into the factors that suggest Derrick Henry could still thrive in his age-31 season, despite being in an age range where many running backs see a significant drop-off in performance. From his unique playing style to historical precedents of running backs succeeding at an older age, we will explore why history may favor Henry to dominate yet again.
Derrick Henry’s Unique Playing Style
Derrick Henry is unlike most running backs in the NFL. His combination of size, speed, and power is a rare blend that allows him to break through tackles, run over defenders, and outpace would-be tacklers in the open field. His ability to wear down opposing defenses with his bruising running style is one of the reasons why Henry has been so successful throughout his career.
While most running backs in the NFL rely on speed and agility to evade defenders, Henry’s style is more about physicality and endurance. His imposing size allows him to overpower defenders, and his ability to gain yardage after contact has helped him consistently put up impressive rushing totals. This makes him a unique case when it comes to longevity.
Many running backs see a drop-off in production as they age because of the cumulative wear and tear on their bodies. But Henry’s style of play, which relies on power running rather than explosive speed, may actually help him sustain his performance for longer than other running backs. He doesn’t rely as much on quick cuts and rapid bursts of speed, which are often the first attributes to decline as a player ages. Instead, he relies on his strength, ability to fall forward, and natural endurance, all of which could extend his career well into his 30s.
Historical Precedent for Running Backs in Their 30s
Running backs in the NFL have a reputation for seeing a rapid decline after reaching the age of 30. The physical demands of the position, coupled with years of taking hits, make it difficult for most players to maintain peak performance after that age. However, history has shown that there are exceptions, and these exceptions often come from players who possess unique attributes or who maintain an exceptional level of conditioning.
- Frank Gore (Age 31-37): One of the most well-known examples of a running back defying the odds is Frank Gore. Gore played in the NFL until he was 37 years old, and even into his 30s, he was still putting up respectable numbers. While Gore was known for his balance, vision, and patience as a runner, his longevity was also attributed to his ability to avoid injuries and remain in top physical condition. His success in his 30s could be seen as a precedent for Henry’s career. Both players share a similar running style — physical and less reliant on breakaway speed — which could bode well for Henry’s longevity.
- Adrian Peterson (Age 31-34): Another example is Adrian Peterson, who continued to perform at an elite level well into his 30s. After winning NFL MVP honors in 2012 with the Minnesota Vikings, Peterson continued to have productive seasons well into his 30s, including a 1,042-yard performance for the Washington Football Team in 2018 at the age of 33. Like Henry, Peterson was known for his power running style and his ability to break tackles. His longevity was attributed to his work ethic, conditioning, and determination, as well as his ability to avoid serious injuries.
- Emmitt Smith (Age 31-35): Emmitt Smith is widely regarded as one of the greatest running backs of all time, and he continued to perform at a high level into his 30s. Smith rushed for over 1,000 yards in four seasons after turning 30, eventually retiring as the NFL’s all-time leading rusher. Smith’s success as an older running back can be attributed to his combination of vision, patience, and ability to avoid direct hits.
These examples show that with the right blend of skill, conditioning, and work ethic, running backs can continue to thrive in their 30s. While the norm in the NFL is for running backs to decline after age 30, players like Gore, Peterson, and Smith have proven that it is possible to continue producing well into their 30s if the player is physically equipped to handle the demands of the position.
Derrick Henry’s Conditioning and Durability
One of the key factors that will contribute to Derrick Henry’s ability to continue dominating in his age-31 season is his exceptional conditioning and durability. Throughout his career, Henry has proven to be remarkably resilient, rarely missing games due to injury. In fact, Henry has only missed a handful of games in his entire NFL career, a rarity for a player at his position. His rare combination of size, strength, and endurance allows him to withstand the physical toll of the NFL season and continue performing at a high level.
Henry’s ability to remain healthy, coupled with his rigorous offseason training regimen, gives him a distinct advantage as he enters his 30s. He has consistently shown the discipline and determination needed to maintain peak physical condition, and his work ethic has made him one of the most feared players in the league. His commitment to conditioning allows him to remain explosive and powerful, even as he ages.
Additionally, Henry’s training and diet regimen have been widely regarded as elite, with many observers noting that he takes great care of his body and consistently works on improving his speed, strength, and flexibility. His commitment to maintaining peak physical form will help ensure that he stays healthy and continues to perform at an elite level.
The Ravens’ Offensive System and Support
Another important factor that will help Derrick Henry thrive in his age-31 season is the offensive system in which he plays. The Ravens are known for their run-heavy offense, which is one of the most physical and demanding in the NFL. Under offensive coordinator Greg Roman, the Ravens have established a system that places a heavy emphasis on the running game, utilizing the quarterback and running backs to create a dominant ground attack. Henry’s running style is well-suited to this system, which focuses on power running and utilizing the ground game to set up play-action opportunities.
Moreover, the Ravens’ offensive line has consistently been one of the stronger units in the NFL, with players who excel at creating running lanes and providing protection for the running back. With a solid offensive line and a system built to maximize Henry’s strengths, the Ravens provide the ideal environment for the veteran running back to succeed in his age-31 season.
The Ravens also have a dynamic quarterback in Lamar Jackson, whose ability to make plays with his legs keeps defenses honest and opens up running lanes for Henry. Jackson’s dual-threat ability makes it difficult for defenses to key in solely on Henry, as they must account for the quarterback’s mobility. This dual-threat nature of the Ravens’ offense could serve as a force multiplier for Henry, helping to keep defenses off balance and allowing him to continue putting up impressive rushing numbers.
Derrick Henry’s Motivation and Legacy
For Derrick Henry, the motivation to continue playing at a high level is not just about personal achievement but also about legacy. The 2023 season will be important for Henry, not only because he is looking to add to his already impressive career statistics but because he is looking to cement his legacy as one of the greatest running backs in NFL history. With over 8,000 career rushing yards and several standout seasons, including two 2,000-yard campaigns, Henry is already in the conversation for the Hall of Fame.
However, Henry knows that longevity and continued success are critical in the NFL, especially for running backs. By continuing to dominate on the field in his age-31 season, Henry has the opportunity to further solidify his place in history and show that age is not necessarily a limiting factor for elite running backs.
Derrick Henry’s contract extension with the Baltimore Ravens has raised some interesting questions about his future in the NFL, especially as he enters his age-31 season. However, history suggests that Henry has the potential to defy the odds and continue to dominate as one of the NFL’s premier running backs.
From his unique running style and exceptional conditioning to historical precedents set by other running backs, Henry’s physical attributes and work ethic suggest that he can maintain a high level of performance for years to come. With the Ravens’ run-heavy offense and solid offensive line, as well as Henry’s personal drive to cement his legacy, there is every reason to believe that the veteran running back will thrive in his age-31 season and continue to be a dominant force in the NFL.
As the 2023 season unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if Derrick Henry can continue to break the mold and show that age is just a number for one of the most dominant running backs the NFL has ever seen. If history is any guide, Henry’s best years may still lie ahead.
