The Dallas Cowboys could certainly use another running back, and ESPN analyst Chris Russo thinks they should pursue Tennessee Titans star Derrick Henry.
Henry is considered to be a prime trade candidate between now and the Oct. 31 NFL trade deadline, which is coming up in less than a week.
The Titans are just 2-4 and have not even resembled playoff contenders, not even in the weak AFC South. Tennessee was also unable to reach a long-term deal with Henry prior to the season, meaning that the three-time Pro Bowler will be a free agent at year’s end.
Here’s the disconnect: the Titans seem headed for an inevitable rebuild this offseason, but Henry is 29 years old and turns 30 in January. He just doesn’t fit the franchise’s timeline anymore, so unless Tennessee feels it can seriously contend this season or that it actually does want to retain him in the spring, moving him now to recoup some value makes sense.
The Cowboys seemed set with Tony Pollard in the backfield going into 2023, but Pollard has actually been disappointing thus far this season, averaging just 3.9 yards per carry. Of course, Pollard is now in his first year as the clear No. 1 back for Dallas, as Ezekiel Elliott is now playing for the New England Patriots.
Henry could step in and provide the Cowboys with an upgrade at halfback and also help make things easier for them in the red zone. Dallas ranks just 26th in the NFL in red-zone efficiency, and having a power back like Henry would absolutely help fix that issue.
Through six games this season, Derrick Henry has rushed for 425 yards and three touchdowns while logging 4.3 yards per tote. Is he the same running back from several years ago? No, but he is still good and would definitely provide a lift to the Cowboys’ so-so offense.
Want the latest NFL analysis, breaking news, and insider information? Click here. Interested in reading storylines and analysis about the NBA? Check out our partner NBA Analysis Network.
