Derrick Henry knows Sunday’s game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Nissan Stadium could be his final one in a Tennessee Titans jersey, but he’ll treat it the same as any other.
“There will definitely be a moment, last game of the season, I’ll be a free agent after this year, and I’ve been here eight years,” Henry said Thursday, via the team’s official website. “I’ll just be grateful to whoever shows up, and I know the fans will come out. Hopefully, we can finish the season strong.”
Henry is the Titans’ record holder for the most rushing touchdowns (89) and scrimmage TDs (92). He also holds the franchise’s highest average of yards per carry (4.6) going into Sunday’s game. With 9,349 rushing yards for Tennessee, he is second only to Eddie George.
Henry hits the free-agent market this offseason, and the Titans could move on from the bulldozing back, electing to give Tyjae Spears the lead role in 2024.
“Every player dreams of playing for an organization and extending their career for as long as possible,” said Henry. “However, I’m aware there’s a business angle and other factors involved. We’ll have to wait and see how things unfold during the offseason.”
Henry, who just celebrated his 30th birthday on Thursday, is set to enter a captivating free-agent market. He’s a prominent name and a player capable of driving an offense. However, his style won’t suit every scheme and he has substantial wear and tear, with over 300 carries in three of the last five seasons. In 2023, he achieved the lowest yards per carry average of his career (3.9), struggling to find openings behind a weak offensive line.
The running back, who amassed 1,014 yards and 11 TDs, achieved his fourth Pro Bowl distinction. However, he admitted that the season was challenging.
“Sometimes, you require a year like this for growth, learning, and reflection,” stated Henry. “Once this season concludes, I will certainly take that time. If I lacked motivation before, I am unquestionably more motivated and hungrier now.
As I approach this offseason, I plan to give it my all. Ultimately, it’s about maintaining consistency and performing at a superior level. Being my own harshest critic, I’ll inevitably be tough on myself.
