There’s one big name running back set to become a free agent in a few weeks that’s over 30 years old, and he very well may be the best running back of the bunch. When you consider age as part of the equation, sure – Saquon Barkley might be a better pick. But Derrick Henry continues to spit in the face of the idea that he’s slowing down, and the numbers he put up this past season prove that he’s still one of the best ball carriers to step on the field.
Consider, first, the fact that in his age 28 and 29 seasons (old for a running back), he didn’t miss a single game. He’s been incredibly durable even as he’s moved ‘past his prime’, but it’s not just his availability that is remarkable about his continued fantasy relevance; he was one of the most efficient running backs in the NFL in 2023 and was easily the best of the bunch among all of the free agent running backs from this year’s class.
Among running backs in 2023 with 200 or more carries, Derrick Henry’s 3.32 yards after contact per attempt and 57 missed tackles forced ranked 6th and 4th, respectively. And among those same qualifying running backs according to PFF, Henry ranked second in breakaway runs (rushes that go for 15+ yards) with 16, second to only Christian McCaffrey’s 20. The fantasy community has been calling for the downfall of Derrick Henry for a while now, but the King has shown no signs of falling off and has a chance to vastly improve his situation this offseason by getting away from the up-and-coming Tyjae Spears.