RB Henry Signs $30M Extension with Ravens: What This Means for the Team and Fans

Running back Derrick Henry is set to continue his impressive NFL career with the Baltimore Ravens after signing a two-year extension worth $30 million. This deal, confirmed by his agent, keeps him off the free market after this season and grants him the largest contract ever for an NFL running back over the age of 30.

Before this extension, Henry was entering the last year of his previous deal, valued at $16 million over two years. His strong performance in his first season with the Ravens — where he rushed for 1,921 yards at 5.9 yards per carry — led to this new agreement. The extension includes $25 million guaranteed, keeping him with the Ravens until 2027.

Interestingly, Henry’s new contract comes just after Saquon Barkley became the highest-paid running back in the league with a $41.2 million extension from the Philadelphia Eagles. Henry’s average salary of $12.3 million per season ranks him as the fourth-highest paid running back, behind Barkley, Christian McCaffrey, and Jonathan Taylor.

One standout statistic is that Henry recorded the most rushing yards by a player aged 30 or older in NFL history. This achievement adds to his legacy, especially given that only a few running backs—like Adrian Peterson and Frank Gore—have surpassed 1,000 yards rushing after turning 30.

Henry’s work ethic has garnered praise from coaches and teammates alike. Quarterback Lamar Jackson noted that Henry takes pressure off him, allowing the Ravens’ offense to flourish. By playing such a significant role, the team saw Jackson achieve career highs in both passing yards and touchdown passes last season.

As Henry enters his 10th NFL season, he stands at 19th on the all-time rushing list with 11,423 yards. A strong performance this season could see him climb into the top 10, surpassing legends like Tony Dorsett. It’s fascinating to see how veteran players like Henry defy age expectations and continue to excel in a physically demanding sport.

This extension not only emphasizes Henry’s skills but also reflects the increasing investment in seasoned players, shifting the conversation around aging athletes in the NFL. As more teams recognize the potential of players past 30, this trend could reshape how contracts are structured in the future.

For a deeper dive into running backs over the age of 30, you can check out this [NFL study on veteran athletes and performance](https://www.nfl.com/news/veterans-thriving-in-an-evolving-league).

Source link