Derrick Henry’s addition to the Baltimore Ravens has been one of the biggest moves of this season. This strategic acquisition came after the Ravens faced a tough loss against the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game, highlighting the need for more offensive weapons. Although the addition of another wide receiver might have been beneficial, the decision to secure Henry for a two-year deal has its own merits.
Todd Monken’s Enthusiasm for Derrick Henry’s Role
Baltimore’s offensive coordinator, Todd Monken, expressed excitement about having Derrick Henry on board, hinting at a substantial role for him in the upcoming season. “I know this: If [Henry] carries it 300 times, we’re having a hell of a year,” Monken stated, implying that a heavy workload for Henry would be indicative of the team’s success. This comment not only underscores Monken’s confidence in Henry’s abilities but also suggests a game strategy deeply reliant on a powerful rushing attack.
The Challenge of Managing Derrick Henry’s Workload
At 30 years old, Derrick Henry shows signs of decline, despite his impressive track record as a four-time Pro Bowler and leading the NFL in carries for four of the last five years. Last season, he managed 1,167 yards and 12 touchdowns from 280 attempts, averaging 4.2 yards per carry—a stark contrast to his peak performance in 2020 with over 2,000 rushing yards. The Ravens must now navigate the delicate balance of utilizing his talent while managing his workload to maintain his effectiveness throughout the season.
Todd Monken’s Plan to Rotate Backs
To keep Henry fresh and effective, Todd Monken plans to implement a strategy that involves rotating the running backs. “I thought we did a good job last year of rotating the backs. I mean, Gus (Edwards) was powerful, but we split the reps,” Monken explained. With Edwards no longer on the team, the responsibility will fall to other backs like Keaton Mitchell and Justice Hill, who are expected to play significant roles in the backfield dynamics.
The Future of Baltimore Ravens’ Rushing Attack
As the 2024 season approaches, the Ravens are poised to redefine their rushing strategy with Derrick Henry as a central figure. While there is excitement about the potential impact Henry can have, there is also a pragmatic recognition of the need to strategically manage his contributions. The Ravens’ ability to adapt their game plan and effectively utilize their roster of backs will be crucial in maximizing Henry’s impact and ensuring the team’s success in a fiercely competitive NFL landscape.
The addition of Derrick Henry to the Baltimore Ravens represents a hopeful chapter for the team, as they aim to fortify their offense and make another strong push for a championship. As they adjust their strategy around Henry’s capabilities and limitations, the Ravens’ management of this veteran running back’s workload will be a key storyline to follow in the coming NFL season.
