Derrick Henry figures to be one of the most coveted free agents on the market in 2020. The Titans big running back could be a target for the Detroit Lions.
Henry led the NFL in rushing thanks to a furious finish. He trailed Cleveland’s Nick Chubb by over 100 yards entering Week 17 and wound up running away with a 211-yard outburst in the finale.
Henry kept on running in the Titans’ playoff run to the AFC Championship Game. The 26-year-old topped 180 rushing yards apiece in wins over New England and Baltimore and another 69 in the loss to the Chiefs.
He’s incredibly productive, no question. Henry has posted 2,599 yards on 518 carries and scored 28 TDs in his two seasons as the Titans’ feature back. Yet the team did not extend him during the season and let his contract expire.
Tennessee could use the franchise tag on Henry, of course. But as of now, he’s scheduled to hit free agency at the peak of his prowess. That won’t make him cheap for anyone.
The Lions will have enough cap room to sign Henry at a premium, if they choose. He’s the most productive runner in the NFL over the last two years and a threat to score from anywhere. His size (6-foot-3, 247 pounds) makes Henry a major load to tackle and a guy who can withstand the heavy workload.
However, NFL teams are showing increasing reluctance to pay running backs, and several recent prime RB signings (Todd Gurley, Ezekiel Elliott, Jerick McKinnon) have not paid off for their teams. Henry could be the exception, but don’t expect the Lions to be the team to see if he can prove it.
Detroit found some success late in the season with Bo Scarbrough handling the role of big power back. Scarbrough is not Henry’s caliber, but for his price tag he’s close enough in the Lions’ offense. With Kerryon Johnson, Ty Johnson and versatile J.D. McKissic all due back with reasonable salaries, expect the Lions to spend for more impact elsewhere on the roster.