Connect with us

Alabama in the Pros

Titans’ RB Derrick Henry looks to build off incredible 2020 NFL season

Derrick Henry puts a crown on his head after dominant performance for Titans in 2020 AFC Divisional Round vs. Ravens
Geoff Burke - USA TODAY Sports

Derrick Henry is finally getting his recognition from everyone in national media.

He was ranked the No. 1 running back in the National Football League, per a report from ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler.

In a poll of 50 league executives, coaches, players, and scouts, Henry was chosen over Alvin Kamara, Dalvin Cook, Nick Chubb, and Christian McCaffery as the best. The former Alabama standout is coming off his second straight NFL rushing title, as he became the eighth back in league history to total 2,000+ yards rushing.

Henry recorded 2,027 yards with 17 touchdowns on 378 carries, leading the Tennessee Titans to its first AFC South Division crown since 2008. He was responsible for ten 100-yard performances in 2020, including three 200-yard games.

Henry has owned the Houston Texans and Jacksonville Jaguars.

RELATED: Jalen Hurts shows off incredible strength ahead of second season with Eagles

Despite his accomplishments last season, could the 2015 Heisman winner be the NFL’s first 3,000-yard rusher?

His work ethic is what has made this a conversation.

The 6-foot-3, 247-pounder is constantly in the gym. Whether he is lifting weights, performing cardio, or getting agility drills in, Henry is finding something to better himself. He is on a different level, but his hunger wants to achieve more.

After getting Julio Jones in a trade from the Falcons, the Titans have an offense that can be scary dominant in the fall. Those who doubted Henry, in the beginning, are starting to understand how valuable he is.

He is not slowing down any time soon, and this is scary for defenses. Check pcredcom.com

*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*

Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine.  You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.

Stephen Smith is a 2015 graduate of the University of Alabama. He is a senior writer and reporter for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. He has covered Alabama football for 15 years and his knowledge and coverage of the Crimson Tide's program have made him among the most respected journalist in his field. Smith has been featured on ESPN and several other marquee outlets as an analyst.

More in Alabama in the Pros