In an unexpected turn of events that nearly altered the NFL landscape, Derrick Henry almost joined the Dallas Cowboys. This revelation, more surprising than initially anticipated, came to light after various offseason talks and speculations. The star running back, who trains in Dallas during the offseason, was a prime candidate to join the Cowboys, but fate had other plans.
Henry's New Beginning with the Ravens
Instead of wearing the Cowboys' iconic silver and blue, Henry inked a two-year, $16 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens. This move ended his eight-year stint with the Tennessee Titans, where he had cemented his reputation as one of the league's most formidable running backs. Henry's impact was immediate and profound, as evidenced by his debut performance against the Cowboys. Rushing for 151 yards and securing two touchdowns, Henry drove the Ravens to a 28-25 victory at AT&T Stadium, marking the Cowboys' second consecutive home loss.
The Cowboys' Running Game Struggles
Looking at the Cowboys’ current roster, the depth chart features Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn. Despite this lineup, the team's ground game has not lived up to expectations. Ranked 25th in rushing during the season's first two weeks, the Cowboys managed a mere 51 yards on the ground in Week 3. This lackluster performance has raised concerns as the season progresses.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones addressed these issues candidly. "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," Jones remarked. "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."
Financial Constraints and Strategic Decisions
One of the main reasons the Cowboys couldn't secure a deal for Henry boiled down to financial limitations. Jones was transparent about this obstacle, stating, "We couldn’t afford Derrick Henry." He further elaborated, comparing the situation to buying a mansion when you live in a different kind of house. "We can't make that all fit. That's as simple as that," he explained.
The Cowboys' financial constraints were exacerbated by their decision to delay extensions for key players like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott. This strategy left the team with limited salary cap space, ultimately preventing them from pursuing high-cost players like Henry. As a result, the Cowboys were forced to look elsewhere to bolster their running game.
Ravens Reaping the Benefits
The acquisition of Henry provides the Ravens with a formidable running game, adding a new dynamic to their offensive strategy. With Henry leading the charge, Baltimore's running attack is expected to be one of the most potent in the league. The addition of a player of Henry’s caliber signifies the Ravens’ commitment to strengthening their roster and making a deep playoff push.
Future Outlook for the Cowboys
As the season unfolds, the Cowboys must find ways to address their running game issues to remain competitive. While Henry’s presence would have undoubtedly bolstered their backfield, the team needs to work with the talent they have and explore other potential additions. It is a strategic puzzle that the Cowboys must solve quickly to ensure they don't fall behind in a highly competitive NFC East.
The near-acquisition of Derrick Henry by the Dallas Cowboys illustrates the complex interplay of talent, strategy, and financial management in the NFL. While Henry now dons Ravens' colors, his almost-journey to Dallas serves as a reminder of how close significant changes can come to fruition—even if they ultimately don't.