Derrick Henry Named NFL’s Best Player Over 30 After Stellar 2024 Season
Most NFL running backs begin to slow down as they near age 30—or even earlier—but Derrick Henry continues to defy expectations. In his first season with the Baltimore Ravens at age 30, Henry was as dominant as ever, if not better.
He racked up 1,921 rushing yards and 16 rushing touchdowns, plus two receiving scores, while averaging a career-best 5.9 yards per carry. Despite early doubts about how he’d fit into Baltimore’s shotgun-heavy offense—vastly different from the under-center style he played in with the Titans—Henry thrived, exceeding all projections.
Because of this performance, Pro Football Focus’ Dalton Wasserman named Henry the top NFL player over 30. Wasserman praised Henry’s elite production, noting he led the league in postseason and regular-season combined with a 93.5 rushing grade and 89 missed tackles forced. Henry also averaged 3.6 yards after contact, continuing to wear down defenses the way few backs can.
While it’s uncertain how long he can maintain this high level, the Ravens clearly have confidence, extending his contract for two more years at $30 million, keeping him in Baltimore through 2027.
Henry wasn’t the only Raven recognized—tight end Mark Andrews also made the list, coming in at No. 15. Though he’s just turning 30 this season and had a tough moment in the playoff loss to the Bills, Andrews still delivered an impressive campaign. He posted an 84.6 receiving grade, the fourth-best among tight ends, and led the position with 11 touchdown receptions.
With Lamar Jackson under center and both Henry and Andrews performing at elite levels, Baltimore’s offense remains one of the league’s most dangerous units.
SOURCE;ON SI. SI.COM\BALTIMORE RAVEN
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