When Derrick Henry signed with the Baltimore Ravens ahead of the 2024 season, expectations were high—but even the most optimistic fans couldn’t have predicted just how dominant the former Titans star would be in his first year wearing purple and black. Now, after an incredible debut season, Henry has made one thing clear:
💬 “I want to retire as a Raven.”
At 31 years old, Henry isn’t slowing down anytime soon. After rushing for 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns—while averaging a career-best 5.9 yards per carry—he proved that he is still one of the most unstoppable forces in the NFL.
Few free-agent signings in Ravens history have had the immediate impact of Henry. In a season where the Ravens’ offense evolved into a more balanced attack, Henry’s presence allowed Lamar Jackson to play at an MVP level while taking some of the rushing burden off his shoulders.
✔️ 1,921 rushing yards (2nd in NFL)
✔️ 16 rushing touchdowns (career-high)
✔️ 5.9 yards per carry (career-best)
✔️ 10 games with 100+ rushing yards
✔️ 4th in Offensive Player of the Year voting
Henry’s dominance gave the Ravens a physical identity that they had been missing since the days of Jamal Lewis. His ability to break tackles, wear down defenses, and control the clock was a game-changer for Baltimore.
Despite his personal success, Henry’s focus remains on the bigger picture—winning a Super Bowl. Speaking with Garrett Downing on the NFL Honors red carpet, Henry made it clear that while he enjoyed his first year in Baltimore, he’s not satisfied.
💬 “It’s a season to be celebrated, but when you look at the big picture, we came up short,” Henry said.
💬 “That all just plays into my head for next season… I just want to work as hard as I can this offseason, get ready, and put together an even better season so we can finish what we want.”
That mindset—the relentless pursuit of a championship—is what makes Henry a perfect fit for the Ravens’ culture.
When General Manager Eric DeCosta was asked about Henry’s future at the Ravens’ season-ending press conference, he left the door open for a potential extension.
💬 “We’ll look at that,” DeCosta said.
💬 “I’m just so grateful that Derrick chose us last year. He came in and … I can honestly say his attitude and the way that he played was amazing to watch. His relationship with his teammates, his humility as a player, his work ethic—I can’t wait to see him next year.”
With one year remaining on his current deal, Henry is set to return to Baltimore for the 2025 season. But with his impact on the field and in the locker room, it wouldn’t be surprising if the Ravens explore a contract extension to keep him in purple and black for years to come.
After spending eight seasons with the Tennessee Titans, Henry had plenty of options in free agency last offseason. So why did he choose Baltimore—and why does he want to finish his career here?
✔️ A Championship Culture – Henry has spoken often about his desire to win a Super Bowl, and the Ravens are one of the NFL’s most consistent contenders.
✔️ Playing with Lamar Jackson – Defenses can’t stack the box against Henry because they also have to worry about Jackson’s ability to run and throw.
✔️ A Perfect Offensive Scheme – Baltimore’s physical, run-heavy system is tailor-made for Henry’s downhill rushing style.
✔️ Respected by Teammates & Coaches – From the front office to the locker room, Henry is beloved in Baltimore, and it’s clear that he loves being a Raven.
As Baltimore enters the 2025 season, Henry is expected to once again be the focal point of the run game. With the Ravens’ offensive line continuing to develop, Lamar Jackson playing at an elite level, and a defense built to dominate, Henry knows this team has everything it takes to win a Super Bowl.
With his legacy already secured as one of the greatest running backs of his generation, the only thing left for Henry to do is add a championship to his résumé. And if he gets his way, he’ll be doing that as a Raven for the rest of his career.
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