Derrick Henry: The Star That Could Have Been a Cowboy
In a twist of fate that could have dramatically altered the NFL landscape, star running back Derrick Henry nearly joined the Dallas Cowboys. While the deal ultimately didn't materialize, the possibility was far closer to reality than many might realize. Training in Dallas during the offseason, Henry seemed a potential fit for the Cowboys, particularly during a period where their running game has struggled significantly.
Despite the proximity, both geographically and in negotiations, Henry signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Baltimore Ravens. This move concluded his eight-year tenure with the Tennessee Titans, where he solidified his reputation as one of the league's premier running backs. His debut with the Ravens saw him dominate the Cowboys, rushing for 151 yards and scoring two touchdowns in a thrilling 28-25 victory at AT&T Stadium. This performance handed the Cowboys their second consecutive home loss.
The Cowboys' running corps, featuring Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn, has struggled to find its footing early in the season. Ranking 25th in rushing during the first two weeks, the team managed just 51 yards on the ground in Week 3. The absence of a dominant presence like Henry’s has been felt acutely.
Financial constraints played a pivotal role in the Cowboys missing out on Henry. Team owner Jerry Jones candidly addressed the situation, stating, "We couldn’t afford Derrick Henry." He elaborated on the financial strain, adding, "I don't know. Why can't you buy a mansion when you live in a different kind of house? We couldn't afford it. We can't make that all fit. That's as simple as that."
As the Cowboys grapple with their running game woes, Jones emphasized that the issues extend beyond any single player. "I wouldn't direct the running game and lack thereof or where we've been over the last three games to any one running back at all. It takes some offensive linemen to blow them out of there; it takes a passing game to keep them honest in the running game. It takes a lot of things to make that work," he explained.
The decision to hold off on contract extensions for key players like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott contributed to the financial tightrope the Cowboys currently walk. This prudent management of the salary cap, while ensuring future flexibility, limited the Cowboys' ability to make a high-profile acquisition like Henry.
Meanwhile, Henry’s impact on the Ravens has been immediate. His physical running style and ability to break through defenses provide Baltimore with a formidable ground game. For the Cowboys, missing out on Henry underscores the pressing need to address their running game issues if they hope to remain competitive as the season progresses.
As the narrative unfolds, it becomes clear that while Henry would have been a valuable asset for the Cowboys, the broader context of the team's financial strategy and holistic approach to the game highlights the complexities of building a championship-caliber roster. Dallas will need to find internal solutions and perhaps look to future opportunities to bolster their running attack.