There is no one quite like Derrick Henry in the NFL. Now in his seventh NFL season, the Tennessee Titans star running back has rushed for over 7,000 yards and scored 68 rushing touchdowns.
Henry is one of a handful of backs in league history to run for over 2,000 yards and is a former NFL offensive player of the year. Henry is also tied with Tony Dorsett for the longest touchdown run in NFL history at 99 yards.
The Washington Commanders face the Titans Sunday and defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio understands what his group is up against in Henry.
“Yeah, he is just so big and strong,” Del Rio said. “He is just an amazing running back, amazing talent. That is just one part of what we have to do. It starts there.”
Henry is a unique challenge because even though you know he is getting the football, good luck trying to tackle the 6-foot-3, 250-pound Henry. Seeing Henry on the schedule is a nightmare for any defense, particularly one with tackling issues.
Del Rio knows preparing for Henry is different than facing a pass-first team.
“Well, I mean, you still look over there,” Del Rio said. “The guy is really big, really fast and talented, understands how to run, how to set up blocks. Don’t wanna make it out to be more than it is. There are a lot of talented running backs in the league, but he’s certainly right up there with the best in our game. It’s gonna be a big challenge.”
Del Rio is correct. Henry isn’t just all size and speed. He has elite vision and patience, making him the NFL’s top running back when healthy.
The Commanders have their work cut out for them Sunday.
