The Tennessee Titans and Derrick Henry were able to agree to a contract extension, but they did so just barely ahead of the deadline.
Despite having months to get it done, the four-year, $50 million deal for Henry was finalized just a few hours before the 4 p.m. deadline on Wednesday.
Titans general manager Jon Robinson was asked about the process that went down to the wire while appearing on ESPN 102.5 The Game on Friday.
“Until everything is signed, sealed and delivered you never really know… We knew he would be part of the team for the 2020 season.. We were able to pick up steam throughout the day on Wednesday and get something done..”
Robinson also praised Henry’s work ethic and leadership, two qualities he says helped the star running back earn a new contract.
“His daily approach to being a good teammate first and foremost and being a leader… the way he prepares himself on a week in and week out basis…”
Robinson went into a bit more detail during an appearance on NFL Live on Thursday.
Here's #Titans GM Jon Robinson on NFL Live telling Diana Rusini how the buzzer beater deal with Derrick Henry evolved. pic.twitter.com/sxgWIEzHJo
— TURRON DAVENPORT (@TDavenport_NFL) July 16, 2020
Henry’s play also helped land him a new deal after he led the NFL in rushing in 2019 and carried the Titans on his back to two playoff wins en route to the AFC Championship Game.
This contract extension was no doubt a win-win. Henry gets a nice payday and some financial security, and the Titans keep their best player for the long haul without a ton of risk and free up more cap space in 2020.
As far as running back deals go in this day and age, the Titans couldn’t have done much better.
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