Cheaper but ‘More Consistent’ Than Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry Provides Ravens a ‘Workhorse’ Without Salary Cap Issues, Says Dave Helman

Derrick Henry is going to get his new home! The Baltimore Ravens have signed free agent running back Henry to a two-year contract worth up to $20 million, with $9 million guaranteed. This move, however, cannot be finalized until the new league year starts Wednesday.

The Ravens needed to address their situation of running backs with Gus Edwards and J.K. Dobbins becoming free agents. Now, Henry, a two-time NFL rushing champion, will join the Ravens, known for their strong ground game. Apart from this, NFL reporter Dave Helman, highlighted how Henry’s contract and Ravens’ entry is more significant than that of Saquon Barkley.

Derrick Henry is the perfect choice for the Ravens?

In a recent episode of SPEAK, NFL reporter Dave Helman joined Emmanuel Acho, Joy Taylor, and James Jones to discuss what the signing of Derrick Henry “means for the Ravens and Lamar Jackson.” Acho believes that adding Henry could extend Jackson’s career by one or two years. He emphasized the importance of protecting Jackson, as historically, quarterbacks who run a lot tend to peak early in their careers. Helman, on the other hand, acknowledged that while Henry protects Jackson, the ultimate goal is winning, especially against tough opponents like the Chiefs.

However, he stated that acquiring Henry adds balance to the team’s offense and addresses the team’s need for a reliable running back. Helman further added, “Derrick Henry who had 1100 yards last year, [called] King Henry, and one of the best, most consistent running backs in the league, [got] two years up to 20 million, 9 million guaranteed. They got him for less than what DeAndre Swift got the day before, for less than what Saquon Barkley got, and Derrick Henry has been more consistent than any of those guys.”

He continued, “So to get it on their terms without changing the calculus of their salary cap, remember the money for Lamar Jackson is going to start coming in like it’s going to be hard to put talent around him. The more expensive he gets, so to get Derrick Henry on a cheap deal, I don’t think it messes with their salary cap, it gives them a Workhorse.” As per Bleacher Report, “According to Over The Cap, the Ravens are $180,381 over the allotted team cap space, meaning they might have to make some other moves down the line.”

In conclusion, Helman clarified Henry’s signing at a reasonable cost, considering his consistency and performance, makes an addition into the Ravens giving them a more balanced and dangerous team.

Read more: Baltimore Bullet Michael Phelps Subtly Welcomes Derrick ‘King Henry’ to His Home Team

Meanwhile, Henry is happy to join Jackson and Ravens, as he has already admitted the quarterback’s prowess in 2020.

How impactful Derrick Henry will be for the Ravens?

Derrick Henry is a formidable running back, who will now team up with Lamar Jackson, making them a potentially unstoppable duo. Jackson is known for his dual threat ability as a quarterback, being dangerous with both his legs and his arm. Henry has admired Jackson for some time, expressing his desire to play alongside him since 2020. He praised Jackson’s skills describing him as a generational talent and highlighting his speed and versatility.

Henry expressed, “He’s so hard to defend because he is so dangerous with his legs, and he can throw it. He’s a dynamic player and he’s been great for those guys. Us Florida boys, we pride ourselves on our speed and being fast. I think we all take pride in that.” The two have developed a friendship over the years, meeting at events like the Pro Bowl and even appearing in commercials together.

Now, with Henry joining the Ravens, they have the opportunity to combine their talents and create a dynamic offense.