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.
Who is the best running back in the NFL?
@jfowlerespn spoke to execs, coaches and players to stack the top 10 ➡️ https://t.co/jY2VHzx9B1 pic.twitter.com/wtQiwYqUF5— ESPN (@espn) July 14, 2021
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.
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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.
Even Derrick Henry workouts without weights are entertaining.
(🎥 via @ShaiteceTrigg) pic.twitter.com/a2adl9F0o5
— Touchdown Alabama (@TDAlabamaMag) July 14, 2021
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.
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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.
