The Baltimore Ravens are facing a slew of challenges as they enter the offseason, from coaching changes to impending free agency departures on defense. Amidst these concerns, one area that doesn’t seem to be a priority is their running game.
The departure of Mike Macdonald, who left to take the helm as head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, looms large, compounded by the looming uncertainty surrounding numerous defensive free agents.
In light of these circumstances, NFL analyst Craig Carton argues against the notion of pursuing Derrick Henry, despite widespread speculation suggesting the Ravens as the frontrunners to land the former Tennessee Titans standout.
“The one team that doesn’t need Derrick Henry is the Baltimore Ravens. What he brings to the table doesn’t suit what they do offensively.”
Carton highlights Henry’s reliance on volume, noting his diminished efficiency with fewer than 15 touches per game—a workload the Ravens aren’t likely to consistently provide, given their offensive strategy. He points out that Henry’s effectiveness often hinges on wearing down defenses, with his yards per rush dipping significantly when not heavily involved in the game plan.
The Ravens made a concerted effort to evolve Lamar Jackson into a more polished pocket passer last season, a move that yielded positive results in the regular season. Additionally, their running back committee thrived, showcasing the team’s ability to generate ground success without relying solely on marquee names.
Given these factors, Carton suggests that investing in Henry may not align with the Baltimore Ravens’ current offensive approach and suggests exploring alternative avenues for allocating resources.
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