On January 11, 2025, Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry finalized a two-year, $30 million contract extension after an impressive first season with the team. Following his blockbuster move from the Tennessee Titans, Henry is not only focused on helping the Ravens pursue a Super Bowl title but is also preparing for an anticipated Hollywood debut in the 2025 season.
Derrick Henry’s Impact in Baltimore and Record-Breaking Season
After spending eight seasons with the Tennessee Titans, Derrick Henry took his first major free agency step, signing with the Baltimore Ravens. His first year in Baltimore was marked by outstanding production, amassing 2,114 all-purpose yards and 18 touchdowns in 2024. This breakout performance confirmed his seamless fit within John Harbaugh’s system and endeared him to Ravens fans. Henry reflected on his transition, stating,
“I fell in love with everything,”
illustrating his immediate connection with the team and city.
Henry’s arrival has deeply strengthened the Ravens’ ground game. Partnering with quarterback Lamar Jackson, the duo powered Baltimore to lead the NFL in rushing yards for the second consecutive year, totaling 3,189 yards and averaging nearly 188 yards per game on the ground. This backfield chemistry was a dominant force, defying expectations given Henry’s age in NFL running back terms.
From the Gridiron to the Silver Screen: Henry’s Hollywood Ambitions
While Henry’s exploits on the field have garnered headlines, his ambitions stretch beyond football. During the offseason, he made a notable appearance at the New York premiere of Happy Gilmore 2, where he met actor Adam Sandler. Their meeting sparked excitement as the pair announced plans to collaborate on a movie project. Sandler revealed,
“We’re doing a movie together, Me and you, bro,”
confirming the budding partnership.
This film opportunity stems from a wager made on The Dan Patrick Show, where Henry was challenged to surpass 2,000 rushing yards in the 2025 season to secure a movie role. The running back’s past performance, including 2,027 rushing yards in 2020, shows he is more than capable of meeting this goal. Sporting a suit lined with “2K,” Henry sent a clear message that he’s ready to deliver on both the football field and on screen.
Unyielding Drive Drives Henry’s Championship Pursuit
Derrick Henry’s relentless work ethic is driving both his personal growth and the Ravens’ ambitions. After a tough playoff loss to the Buffalo Bills, Henry wasted little time returning to the gym, demonstrating his determination to elevate Baltimore to the next level.
“My mind was going crazy. I was like, ‘I’ve got to go work out,’”
Henry said.
“I couldn’t wait anymore, I couldn’t hold off, so I came back to the facility.”
Henry’s focus is firmly on a Super Bowl victory. Reflecting on the previous season, he remarked,
“Last year, it was a lot of fun. We accomplished winning the division, got into the playoffs, but ultimately, we came up short, so it’s a lot of fuel that should go into this season.”
With Lamar Jackson leading the offense and a mostly intact roster, the Ravens are positioned to challenge strongly for the NFL’s ultimate prize.
At 31, Henry has silenced critics who doubted his longevity and effectiveness. Last season, he tallied 16 touchdowns while averaging a career-best 5.9 yards per carry, propelling Baltimore’s top-ranked offense and reinforcing that he remains one of the most dominant running backs in the league. His contributions have not only changed the Ravens’ offensive identity but also resonated with the city itself. Ravens running backs coach Willie Taggart commented,
“He fits our identity as an organization, and I think he fits Baltimore as a city and what the city stands for.”
Commitment to Baltimore and the Road Ahead
Henry expressed gratitude for the Ravens’ commitment to him through this new deal, emphasizing his dedication in return.
“I’m very appreciative of how much they value me, to give me an extension, and I just want to show them how much it means to me,”
he said. When asked about his future, Henry was clear and determined:
“I ain’t thought about that, I ain’t thinking about it. I feel great, not even close.”
His focus remains on one objective: “We will win it here.”
Head coach John Harbaugh and the Ravens organization recognize that their current roster, with a reinforced defensive line and star players like Henry and Jackson, is in a prime window to compete for a championship. As the team rallies behind the confident running back, fans anticipate seeing Henry not only lift the Lombardi Trophy but also make his mark beyond football, possibly premiering alongside Adam Sandler on the big screen.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why doesn’t Derrick Henry eat until 4?
A. Henry explained that eating at 4 or 5 isn’t practical for every day. Sometimes he eats that late when focusing on body recovery or taking IVs. However, he usually has his first meal around noon.