Late for Work: Derrick Henry and Three Former Ravens Greats Named to PFF’s Quarter-Century Team

In a world where the NFL evolves at a rapid pace, recognizing greatness across different eras is crucial. The Pro Football Focus (PFF) Quarter-Century Team, which highlights the best players of the past 25 years, offers a chance to celebrate the athletes who have shaped the league into what it is today. In its latest iteration, the prestigious list includes some of the most dominant players in NFL history, and among them are running back Derrick Henry and three former Baltimore Ravens legends. These players have not only defined their positions but also left a lasting impact on their teams and the league at large.

This year’s inclusion of Derrick Henry is particularly special as the Tennessee Titans’ star running back continues to defy conventional expectations in an era that often prioritizes the passing game. Meanwhile, the three former Ravens—Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs—have rightfully earned their place among the league’s greatest, continuing the Ravens’ legacy of strong, impactful defense. The recognition of these players speaks volumes about their contributions to the NFL and their enduring greatness.

Derrick Henry: The King of the Ground Game

When it comes to modern-day running backs, few have achieved the level of dominance that Derrick Henry has. Known as “King Henry,” his combination of size, speed, and vision has made him one of the most feared players in the NFL today. Henry’s ability to break tackles and impose his will on opposing defenses has been a key component of the Tennessee Titans’ offensive success in recent years.

Since entering the league in 2016, Derrick Henry has made a name for himself as a rare breed of running back capable of handling a heavy workload without losing his effectiveness. His 2,027-yard season in 2020 was one of the most impressive individual accomplishments in recent NFL history. It was a testament to his ability to carry the offense and wear down defenses with his unique running style. That season, Henry became just the eighth player in NFL history to rush for over 2,000 yards, and he did so with a relentless drive that saw him play a pivotal role in leading the Titans to the playoffs.

But it’s not just his 2,000-yard season that solidifies Henry’s place on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team. The consistency with which he has dominated over the past several years, his back-to-back rushing titles, and his ability to perform in big moments have made him a standout player. Henry’s long runs, including several for touchdowns over 60 yards, have become legendary. In an era where running backs are often asked to split carries or even fade into obscurity due to the pass-heavy nature of modern offenses, Henry’s ability to sustain a heavy workload while maintaining his level of performance is unparalleled.

For Titans fans and NFL observers alike, Derrick Henry’s recognition on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team is well-deserved. He may not have the same media spotlight that some of the NFL’s top quarterbacks or wide receivers enjoy, but Henry’s impact on the field is undeniable. His career continues to flourish as one of the most prolific and unstoppable forces in the league.

Ray Lewis: The Heartbeat of the Ravens Defense

Ray Lewis, the emotional leader and anchor of the Baltimore Ravens defense for over 17 years, has solidified his place among the all-time greats of the NFL. Lewis’s inclusion on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team is not only a reflection of his incredible physical talent but also his leadership, mentality, and impact on the game. The heart and soul of Baltimore’s defense, Lewis was known for his relentless pursuit of the ball and his uncanny ability to read offenses, making him one of the best linebackers in NFL history.

The two-time Super Bowl champion, nine-time Pro Bowl selection, and two-time NFL Defensive Player of the Year left an indelible mark on the league. Over his career, Lewis became synonymous with the Ravens’ identity: hard-hitting, mentally tough, and aggressive. His leadership transcended the locker room, and his fiery speeches became legendary. On the field, Lewis was the quarterback of the defense, making calls and adjustments on the fly while executing his responsibilities with precision.

Lewis’s most memorable performances often came in the biggest moments. His leadership in the Ravens’ Super Bowl XXXV victory in 2001 and his role in the team’s 2012 championship run cemented his legacy as one of the most successful postseason performers in history. Lewis’s work ethic, unmatched passion for the game, and ability to inspire his teammates set him apart as a true icon in NFL history. His leadership qualities and ability to elevate those around him make his inclusion on the Quarter-Century Team a fitting tribute to his unforgettable career.

Ed Reed: The Maestro of the Secondary

Ed Reed, a free safety whose instincts and intelligence made him one of the most dominant players of his era, is another well-deserving former Raven who finds himself on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team. Reed, like Lewis, was the embodiment of the Ravens’ defense for much of his career. His ability to track the ball, read the quarterback, and make crucial game-changing plays was unmatched. Reed’s eight interceptions in 2004 and his 1,590 interception return yards stand as records that highlight his unparalleled ball-hawking ability.

A key factor in Reed’s inclusion is his uncanny knack for turning turnovers into points, which often swung momentum in favor of the Ravens. He was a true game-changer who was able to read offenses in ways few safeties have ever been able to. His interception return for a touchdown in Super Bowl XLVII was one of the most iconic plays in Ravens history and helped secure their second championship.

Over his career, Reed was a nine-time Pro Bowler and a first-ballot Hall of Famer in 2019. His ability to play deep coverage, provide run support, and generate turnovers made him a complete safety and one of the most feared players in the secondary. Reed’s football IQ, combined with his athleticism and playmaking ability, makes him a worthy addition to PFF’s Quarter-Century Team, further solidifying his place among the NFL’s elite.

Terrell Suggs: The Pass Rush Legend

The third former Ravens player on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team is Terrell Suggs, the legendary pass rusher whose career spanned over 16 seasons. Suggs, known for his relentless pursuit of quarterbacks and his ability to disrupt offenses, was a cornerstone of the Ravens’ defense during his tenure in Baltimore. As a 7-time Pro Bowl selection, Suggs was one of the most feared edge rushers of his generation, and his physical style of play made him a perfect fit for the Ravens’ tough, gritty defensive identity.

Suggs is best known for his pass-rushing prowess, finishing his career with 139 sacks. However, his impact went far beyond his sack totals. Suggs’ ability to change the momentum of a game with a big hit, strip-sack, or forced turnover made him one of the most dynamic defensive players in the league. His leadership and ability to elevate his play in critical moments, including his performance during the Ravens’ Super Bowl XLVII victory, cemented his legacy as one of the most successful pass rushers in NFL history.

Suggs’ combination of strength, speed, and intelligence allowed him to thrive in a variety of defensive schemes, making him an invaluable asset to the Ravens’ defense. His fierce attitude and leadership helped set the tone for Baltimore’s defense throughout his career. Suggs’ place on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team is a testament to his exceptional career and his lasting impact on the Ravens and the NFL.

The Ravens’ Legacy

For the Baltimore Ravens, the inclusion of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team is a powerful reminder of the team’s defensive legacy. Together, these players helped establish the Ravens as one of the premier defensive teams in NFL history. Their individual contributions, as well as their collective impact, defined the Ravens’ approach to football and set the standard for excellence in the league.

The fact that the Ravens have three players on the Quarter-Century Team underscores just how much they have shaped the NFL’s defensive landscape over the past 25 years. As one of the most respected franchises in the league, the Ravens’ ability to produce such impactful and iconic defensive players has become a hallmark of the team. Their success is not just reflected in their championships and accolades but in the legacy they have left behind in the NFL.

Derrick Henry’s dominance on the field and the timeless greatness of Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, and Terrell Suggs have earned them all a rightful place on PFF’s Quarter-Century Team. These players have left indelible marks on the NFL, shaping their respective teams and the league as a whole. The recognition of these four players highlights their exceptional careers, dedication to their craft, and lasting legacies. As the NFL continues to evolve, the greatness of these players serves as a reminder of the impact that exceptional talent can have on the game of football.