“I’m Hauling A**”: Derrick Henry Reveals Why His Love for Zone Running Scheme Made Ravens the Perfect Landing Spot

Derrick Henry is happy to be a Raven! Before joining the Baltimore Ravens during the 2024 NFL free agency, Henry, a four-time Pro Bowler, was strongly connected with the Dallas Cowboys. However, as Jerry Jones’ franchise reportedly “never reached out to him,” Henry is now happy and excited for what he got.

This season, Henry has taken the place of Gus Edwards, who is now playing for the Los Angeles Chargers. Henry’s addition has made the Ravens’ rushing offense even more formidable, which he recently explained how!

Derrick Henry is glad that it worked out with the Ravens!

In the latest episode of The Pivot Podcast, former NFL stars Channing Crowder, Fred Taylor & Ryan Clark, were joined by Derrick Henry to talk about his offseason move from the Titans to the Ravens. Henry expressed his excitement about joining the Ravens and playing in their offensive scheme. He emphasized his desire to make a play and do the right thing when facing defensive backs.

Henry also mentioned that he set up on the offense while being on “demon time” and explained how he plans to take advantage of different defensive setups and manipulate opposing defenses to create opportunities for himself and his teammates. The thirty-year-old football player said, “….unless it’s like a a downhill run where we just like we are going to get what we can and then just keep running down their throats until they finally tap out but like in the zone scheme.”

He further explained his strategy and elaborated on his love for zone running scheme, “It’s really about manipulating the defense, like setting your linebackers up on the offensive lineman because sometimes they don’t come off and you got to be able to move, making it easy for them to get where you want to go, but that’s what I love about the zone scheme. I’m like this should be fun because like I’m hauling a**.”

Overall, the RB seemed satisfied with his current team in NFL as the anticipation for 2024 showdown grows each day. Interestingly though, not only his love for zone running scheme has helped Henry to fit in with the Ravens easily. There is another reason too, which made the purple army and former Alabama player a perfect match.

Ray Lewis influenced Derrick Henry

Derrick Henry values winning a Super Bowl and chose to join the Ravens because of their rich history and consistent competitiveness. He was influenced by franchise legend Ray Lewis, who spoke passionately about the organization during a conversation at the Pro Bowl. Henry expressed his desire to be a part of the Ravens, saying that “they have been showing love.“

With impressive stats from the 2023 season (over 1000 rushing yards & 280 carries), and a new two-year, $16 million contract with the Ravens, Henry is set to team up with Lamar Jackson to form a formidable backfield. The Ravens had shown interest in acquiring him before, which influenced Henry’s decision to prioritize them in free agency.

Derrick Henry will now join a talented offensive unit with players like Mark Andrews, Zay Flowers, Ronnie Stanley, and Tyler Linderbaum. All that is left to be seen is how these combinations will burst on the field and if they will be able to capitalize on their combined skill sets. What do you think of Henry’s anticipated addition to the Ravens? Let us know below!

Read more: John Harbaugh Denies Derrick Henry’s Impact on Lamar Jackson’s Touches in Running Game