In the realm of NFL rushing records, one man stands alone: Eric Dickerson, whose awe-inspiring 2,105 yards in 1984 have remained untouched for nearly four decades. However, a new contender has emerged, and his name is Derrick Henry. The Baltimore Ravens’ star running back is on a torrid pace that could see him etch his name in the history books, and his quarterback, Lamar Jackson, believes he has a “great chance” of shattering Dickerson’s long-standing mark.
Henry’s Explosive Start
Through the first seven games of the 2024 season, Henry has been an unstoppable force, averaging a league-leading 124.7 yards per game. His 873 rushing yards are the second-most by a player aged 30 or older at this point in a season, trailing only the legendary Walter Payton’s 875 yards in 1984. Henry’s current pace would see him finish with a staggering 2,120 yards, eclipsing Dickerson’s record by a comfortable margin.
It’s there. I feel like he has a great chance of achieving that. I think he can do it. I believe he can do it.
– Lamar Jackson on Derrick Henry’s chances of breaking the rushing record
A Decorated Career
Henry’s pursuit of history is even more remarkable considering his age and the mileage he has accumulated over his illustrious career. In his ninth season, the 6-foot-3, 247-pound bruiser shows no signs of slowing down, using his signature stiff-arm and explosive running style to punish defenses week after week. His dominance has been a key factor in the Ravens’ success, as they currently sit atop the AFC North with a 5-2 record.
Chasing Greatness
While Henry remains focused on team goals rather than individual accolades, the allure of breaking Dickerson’s record is undeniable. In 2020, during his time with the Tennessee Titans, Henry fell just 94 yards short of the 2,000-yard mark. Now, with the Ravens’ potent offense and his own seemingly ageless abilities, he has a legitimate shot at not only surpassing 2,000 yards but also claiming the single-season rushing crown.
A Daunting Challenge
The road ahead won’t be easy for Henry, as eight of the Ravens’ remaining ten opponents boast run defenses ranked in the top half of the league. However, if anyone is capable of defying the odds and steamrolling through even the stoutest of defensive fronts, it’s the man they call “King Henry.” His unique blend of size, speed, and power makes him a nightmare for defenders, and his relentless work ethic ensures that he will leave no stone unturned in his quest for greatness.
I went to the team I was supposed to go to and that I wanted to go to. I can’t worry about what people say. I do what works for Derrick Henry and I’m a Baltimore Raven.
– Derrick Henry on joining the Ravens in free agency
A Season for the Ages
As the 2024 NFL season unfolds, all eyes will be on Derrick Henry and his pursuit of history. With each bone-crushing stiff-arm and every explosive run, he inches closer to immortality. And if he does indeed break Dickerson’s record, it will be a testament not only to his incredible talent but also to his unbreakable spirit and unwavering determination. For now, the football world watches in awe, witnessing a season that could very well go down as one of the greatest in NFL history.
