Ever since he began his NFL career with the Tennessee Titans in 2016, Derrick Henry—the University of Alabama Heisman Trophy winner—has continually validated the Titans’ choice in selecting him. With his outstanding performances, he has emerged as a major player in the conversation about earning a place in the Hall of Fame.
The Titans, recognizing his value, ensured his presence on the team for the current season. Nevertheless, as the NFL season finale unfolded, speculation loomed over whether Week 18 signaled the conclusion of the veteran running back’s tenure in Tennessee.
The Titans saw enough to keep him on the squad for the current campaign. Still, there was speculation as the NFL season finale played out regarding whether or not Week 18 marked the end of the seasoned running back’s stint with Tennessee.
Did Derrick Henry play his final game for the Titans?
The Titans defeated the Jaguars in a heartbreaking game to win Week 18, which was an significant event that may also portend Derrick Henry’s impending retirement. As the season came to an end, Henry not only passed Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell in the record book for the most 100-yard rushing games in the history of the team, but he also spoke to the Titans supporters, perhaps saying goodbye to his Titans days.
The NFL’s 2020 Offensive Player of the Year expressed gratitude to the Titans fans for their amazing eight years of unwavering support in a heartfelt message. Derrick acknowledged the highs and lows as well, highlighting the support of the fans in the face of hardship and observing his own development as a player and a person.
“Titans fans, I just want to say thank you for the greatest eight years of my life. The ups and the downs, y’all have been there for everything. Through the adversity, watching me grow as a person and a player, always supporting me. I love y’all.”
The running back, recognizing the impact he had on the community, especially among young fans, expressed his hope that he served as an inspiration.
“I love seeing the 22 jerseys in the stadium. Hopefully, I was an inspiration to all the young kids and everybody in the community. Just, thank y’all so much. God is good, and Titan up, baby.”
However, with Henry’s contract set to expire at the end of the season, uncertainty looms over his future with the franchise. As it may have been his final appearance in Jacksonville, Henry left an indelible mark by pouring his heart and prowess into the game.
The two-time NFL rushing champion showcased his excellence on Sunday, amassing an impressive 153 yards and scoring a touchdown on just 19 carries. Despite the Titans falling short of playoff aspirations, which made Henry disappointed, Henry’s stellar performance helped eliminate the Jaguars from playoff contention.
Derrick Henry discusses his Super Bowl goal
Entering what might be his final season with the Titans, Derrick Henry, who shared his honest take on the NFL’s running back position, is facing heartbreak for failing to accomplish his desire to secure a Super Bowl victory. It is obviously a feat that has eluded him thus far. Following the game, the running backs expressed the profound impact of falling short in their previous Super Bowl bid.
Reflecting on the near miss during this time, he acknowledged the disappointment of coming close but not seizing the championship.
“I said earlier that any player would love to play for one franchise over their whole career. Us getting so close like we did and not finishing it, that’s always going to be in the back of your mind,” Henry remarked, per the Nashville Post.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding his future with the Titans, his focus remains steadfast on the immediate goal. He boldly stated his intention of bringing the coveted Super Bowl trophy to Tennessee.
“I want to bring the Super Bowl here really bad.”
Do you think that the Titans should let his Super Bowl dream come true by offering him a contract extension deal?
