For eight seasons, Derrick Henry helped power the Titans offense, becoming one of the league’s best and most feared running backs in the process.
He departed Tennessee after the 2023 season, but he’s still been plenty dangerous with Baltimore. He currently leads the NFL with six rushing touchdowns through the first three weeks.
In his first season as Titans head coach, Robert Saleh wasn’t with the club alongside Henry. But he is well aware of the legacy Henry left in the building, and knows Henry will be plenty challenging to slow down as Tennessee takes on Baltimore this weekend.
“First of all, I still think he has aura,” Saleh said in his Wednesday press conference. “The guy’s an unbelievable football player destined for the Hall of Fame. Everything you hear about the man, his off the field work habits, how he interacts with people, and then who he is on the field.
“I mean, he’s been a very special man in that regard. I’ve never coached with him, but I’ve always gotten a chance to see him from afar and go against him. And again, he’s an animal. Still running like he’s 25 years old. He’s a tremendous challenge, and anytime you’re trying to replace a Hall of Famer, it’s not going to be easy.”
The Titans have Tony Pollard and Tyjae Spears carrying the load at running back now.
It will be tough for them to try and match Henry on Sunday, but they’ll have to try.
