Veteran Running Back Signs Two-Year Extension
Derrick Henry, the superstar running back who entered the NFL as a second-round pick by the Tennessee Titans in 2016, has logged a physically demanding career. Set to turn 32 during the latter part of the 2025 season, Henry still remains a central figure in the Baltimore Ravens’ plans to pursue a Super Bowl during the Lamar Jackson era.
The Ravens recently demonstrated their commitment by signing Henry to a two-year, $30 million extension, ensuring he stays in Baltimore through the 2027 season. Whether Henry chooses to retire after this contract and await a likely Hall of Fame induction remains to be seen. Given his athleticism, it’s also possible he could continue playing beyond this deal.
Henry Focused Solely on the Present
On Monday, the day he signed the extension, Henry declined to speculate about another contract in the future. Instead, he emphasized staying focused on the immediate goals ahead. “I think it’s just focus on this year and then focus to continue to get better year after year that I’m here. That’s always going to be my focus,” Henry said, according to Jamison Hensley of ESPN.
“I love football, I love playing. I know people look at my age, but I don’t really try to focus on that. I just focus on, ‘How can Derrick Henry be better, how can Derrick Henry help the Ravens get to where they want to get to?'”
Defying Age and Expectations
Henry’s first season in Baltimore was nothing short of remarkable. He carried the ball 325 times for 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 5.9 yards per carry.
Despite conventional wisdom warning against paying running backs after age 30, Henry has consistently bucked that trend. The 2024 campaign marked his third consecutive 1,000-yard season, and the 16 touchdowns matched the second-highest total of his career.
While most running backs slow down by their early 30s, Henry continues to defy expectations. Whether he remains productive into age 33 will be determined by how the next two seasons unfold, but history suggests he’s not a player to bet against.
