Detroit Lions: 4 Free Agent Running Backs to Target this Offseason
By Bob Heyrman
Derrick Henry
I often refer to him as the big diesel engine. I’d very much love to refer to him as the ‘Detroit Diesel,’ but I’m not sure the Tennessee Titans will allow their lead back to hit the open market. The Alabama product is enjoying a tremendous season as the focal point in the Titans offense.
Henry was drafted 43rd overall in the 2016 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans. The second-round pick is finally coming into his own. It started at the end of last season, perfect for all of his fantasy owners, but the Titans couldn’t do much postseason damage with Marcus Mariota as their starting quarterback.
Since, the Titans have traded for now starter Ryan Tannehill and continue to hand the football off to Derrick Henry, who thrives as the game wears on. As the defense tires, Henry uses his 6’3, 250-pound frame to roll over defenders.
Derrick is a perfect inside the tackles runner but has enough burst to bounce a run outside and take it to the house. He’s just 25-years old with plenty left in the tank, but he’s undoubtedly hoping to cash in this Spring with a new lucrative deal. Henry produced 12 rushing touchdowns last season and ran for 1059 yards on 215 carries, good for 4.9 yards per run.
He’s backing that up this season even against eight men in the box, knowing Henry is getting the football. Through his first ten games of the season, he’s rushed for 837 yards on 187 carries. He’s already scored 8 rushing touchdowns.
Henry would be a perfect lead back for the Detroit Lions if they felt like giving Darrell Bevell a bell cow that can run in between the tackles. He’s no Marshawn Lynch, but Henry is definitely described as a violent runner.
I feel limiting Kerryon Johnson’s carries, preserving his body will help with his longevity moving forward. The pair would be a fantastic 1-2 punch for the Detroit Lions.