For a time, it seemed like Derrick Henry to the Dallas Cowboys could become a reality. Yet, circumstances beyond the Cowboys’ control ultimately shifted the star running back’s course to the Baltimore Ravens. This intriguing potential move highlights the ongoing decisions and adjustments within the NFL landscape.
Henry, whose offseason training takes place in Dallas, signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens after eight seasons with the Tennessee Titans. His switch to Baltimore adds substantial depth to their running game, as evidenced by his debut performance against the Cowboys. Henry dismantled the Cowboys' defense, rushing for 151 yards and two touchdowns in Baltimore's narrow 28-25 victory at AT&T Stadium.
The Cowboys’ Running Game Conundrum
The defeat marked the Cowboys’ second consecutive loss at home, prompting questions about their effectiveness on the ground. Currently, Dallas has Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn on their depth chart. Despite these options, the Cowboys ranked a lowly 25th in rushing during the first two weeks of the season, managing only 51 yards on the ground in Week 3. These disappointing statistics underline a pressing issue that Dallas needs to address.
Adding to the complexities, the Cowboys have decided to delay contract extensions for key players such as wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott. This financial strategy has left the team with limited salary cap space, which directly impacted their ability to acquire a high-caliber player like Henry. As Jerry Jones, the franchise’s outspoken owner, candidly put it, "We couldn’t afford Derrick Henry."
Financial Constraints and Missed Opportunities
Jones elaborated further on the Cowboys' situation. "I don't know. Why can't you buy a mansion when you live in a different kind of house? We couldn't afford it. We can't make that all fit. That's as simple as that."
While Jones acknowledges the team's running game issues, he is quick to disperse the blame across the board rather than singling out any one player. "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, because 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. This wouldn't be solved with just jumping over there and getting [Hall of Famer] Jimmy Brown."
Looking Ahead for Both Teams
Henry’s arrival in Baltimore has already shown promising results for the Ravens, bolstering a formidable running game that will be crucial as the season progresses. On the other hand, the Cowboys need to find sustainable solutions to their running game woes if they hope to remain competitive. Whether through trade, free agency, or developing their existing roster, Dallas must address this vital component of their offense.
As the season unfolds, the decisions made by both teams will undoubtedly be scrutinized. The anticipation of what could have been a dynamic addition for the Cowboys versus the actual realization of Henry's potential with the Ravens offers a fascinating subplot to the ongoing NFL drama. Both fanbases and analysts alike will eagerly watch how these narratives play out on the field.