There has been plenty of drama surrounding Derrick Henry and his contract extension as the deadline loomed closer and closer. Less than 24 hours after reports were that Derrick Henry would be playing this next season on the franchise tag, the Titans were able to beat the buzzer and sign the NFL’s current leading rusher.
The Tennessee Titans and Derrick Henry have agreed to a contract extension worth $50 million over the next four seasons, with $25.5 million guaranteed. Henry will be paid $12.5 million his first two years of his contract, making him the 5th highest paid running back in the NFL.
This deal might come as a surprise to some considering earlier this week ESPN’s Adam Schefter had said the Tennessee Titans and Derrick Henry “weren’t expected to find common ground” with the contract negations.
On March 15th the Titans agreed with their newly found quarterback, Ryan Tannehill, on a four year/$118 million extension with $62 million in guarantees. Now that they have their leading rusher tied down through 2024, the Titans are officially ready to “run it back“.
Last season Derrick Henry was a huge reason why the Tennessee Titans were able to reach the AFC Championship game, and was a literal wrecking ball for defenses. He led the NFL in rushing yards with 1,540, and was also tied with Aaron Jones for most rushing touchdowns (16).
That was 30% of the Tennessee Titans offensive production in 2019. I think it is fair to say King Henry has done enough to deserve this bag.