Derrick Henry, the Human Steamroller, headlines a stellar 2020 RB Free Agency Class (ultimate RB preview here). In 2019, the Fantasy Gods and Titans finally heard our prayers, and “Tractorcito” was unleashed.
The result? The NFL lead in attempts (303), yards (1540), and rush TDs (16). The Bulldozer really ignited once Ryan Tannehill took over, trailing only Christian McCaffrey in FPs from Week 7 on.
Both Henry and Tannehill are 2020 Free Agents, however. Where is Henry’s ideal landing spot for his fantasy value? What’s the latest news, and where do we expect him to land?
Ideal: Return to Titans
The Titans offense boast the two key ingredients for RB success: a group of mauling run blockers, and a run-centric approach.
Yes, bruising RT Jack Conklin — their second-highest graded run blocker — is scheduled for Free Agency. Most expect him to depart. Even without him, Taylor Lewan and Roger Saffold are among the best at their positions, and center Ben Jones’ 77.2 PFF grade ranked third in the league and highest of his eight year career.
Meanwhile, new OC Arthur Smith ran the ball on 46.9% of his plays — fourth highest in the league. Obviously, having a stallion like Henry in the backfield influences this playcalling, but this is a team built for the run.
Even more enticing? Dion Lewis is was released on March 12th, opening up the door for more receiving work for Henry. He has averaged 10.1 yards per reception in his NFL career, and his 11.4 YPC in 2019 was second highest among RBs. Henry was especially deadly on screens, averaging 13.8 YPC on screens. Yet, he’s averaged just 1.6 targets per game? Imagine the upside if these looks double… 2100 total yd, 20 TD ceiling, RB1 ceiling.
Predicted Spot: Titans
Isn’t it nice when the ideal and predicted line up? The Titans will “do everything we can” to keep him, including the franchise tag. Most recently, Ian Rappoport reported the Titans “plan to bring Henry back at a big number.”
This makes sense. Henry is their entire offensive identity, and nearly carried them to the Super Bowl in 2019. While plenty of backs could succeed in this system behind the line, Henry might be the only true glove-like fit in the league.
They’ll have to pay up, as Henry views Ezekiel Elliott’s $90 million contact “the floor” for what he desires. Although the more one-dimensional Henry would do well to hit this, he is well-aware of his importance in Tennessee. The Titans have numerous key free agents, including QB Ryan Tannehill, but Henry seems to be the team’s highest priority, and rightfully so
Wildcard: Dolphins
This is merely dot-connecting: the Dolphins have a dire need at RB, and the most cap space in the league ($88m) with which to fill it. Considering Ryan Fitzpatrick led this team in rushing, and Kalen Ballage (puke) is their current top option, the Dolphins are locks to add some backfield bodies. Why not get the prized jewel of this free agent class?
Ultimately, Miami is reportedly more interested in adding a younger body. Their RB coach was seen working with top-ranked rookie Jonathan Taylor, and they’re also reportedly enamored with JK Dobbins.
Let’s hope Henry doesn’t rot behind this horrendous line, and returns to his safe haven in Tennessee.
What other Free Agent RBs do you need to know about? Also, check out our Whole 2020 NFL Free Agency Preview Podcast to get caught up on every position.
