Henry: Joining Ravens to play with Lamar 'a no-brainer'

Derrick Henry didn't think twice about signing with the Baltimore Ravens in free agency.

The star running back called his decision to join forces with star quarterback Lamar Jackson "a no-brainer" during his introductory presser Thursday, according to Jeff Zrebiec of The Athletic.

"He's so dynamic. I'm excited to play with him," said Henry. "He had a great year (in 2023), did a lot of great things. I just want to be an added piece to this offseason. I'm trying to focus on coming in and earning the respect of my teammates."

Jackson won his second career MVP award last season and remains the NFL's most productive running quarterback.

Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta revealed the team attempted to acquire Henry from the Tennessee Titans before last season's trade deadline, per Zrebiec. After missing out, DeCosta said the All-Pro became the team's top free-agent target.

Welcome to the fam, @KingHenry_2 pic.twitter.com/NsxUwoFlNk

- Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) March 14, 2024

Henry has twice led the NFL in rushing yards, including a historic 2,000-yard 2020 campaign that earned him Offensive Player of the Year honors.

But the future Hall of Famer turned 30 in January, an age when running backs usually begin a steep decline.

Henry still produced 1,167 yards and 12 touchdowns in 2023 despite inconsistent blocking, though his average of 68.6 yards per game was his lowest since 2018.

"Tell them to keep watching," said Henry when asked about people saying he's past his prime.

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