In an era where many NFL teams are devaluing the running back position, Saquon Barkley of the Philadelphia Eagles and Derrick Henry of the Baltimore Ravens are proving that elite ball carriers still have the power to transform offenses. Through Week 12 of the 2024 season, Barkley leads the league with 1,392 rushing yards while Henry tops all players with 13 rushing touchdowns—marking the first time two backs have reached those benchmarks at this stage of a season.
Barkley’s Breakout in Philly
After an injury-plagued stint with the Giants, Barkley signed a three-year, $37.8 million contract with the Eagles this offseason. He’s proving to be a bargain, averaging a league-best 4.56 yards before contact thanks to Philly’s dominant O-line. His presence has turned the Eagles into a run-first juggernaut, with the team going 7-0 since committing to over 40 rushes per game.
“You’re already the best running back in the world. I think you’re the best player in the world.”
– A.J. Brown to Saquon Barkley after a 255-yard game
Henry’s Age-Defying Dominance
At age 30, most assumed Henry’s best days were behind him when he joined the Ravens on a two-year, $16 million deal. Instead, he’s on pace for 1,877 rushing yards—which would shatter the record for a player his age. The former Titan has been a red zone monster in Baltimore, with his 13 touchdowns already tying a career high.
“King Henry. The name just fits him well, very well.”
– Lamar Jackson on Derrick Henry’s impact
Barkley vs Henry Showdown Looms
The two backs, who have faced each other twice before, will go head-to-head in Baltimore on Sunday as the 9-2 Eagles visit the 8-4 Ravens. With major playoff implications and the rushing title on the line, all eyes will be on Barkley and Henry as they look to prove that investing in a difference-making RB still pays major dividends in today’s pass-happy NFL.
- Barkley leads NFL with 1,392 rushing yards; Henry 2nd with 1,325
- Henry tops league with 13 rushing TDs; Barkley 2nd with 11
- Eagles 7-0 since increasing rush attempts to 40+ per game
- Henry on pace for record 1,877 rushing yards for 30+ year old
According to sources close to both teams, while Barkley and Henry are fierce competitors on the field, they share a mutual respect and a desire to elevate the running back position across the league. With their sensational 2024 campaigns, they’re forcing teams to reconsider the value of an elite workhorse back in an increasingly pass-first NFL.
