Derrick Henry is set to embark on his age-32 season, a milestone where most running backs in NFL history begin to decline or transition into lesser roles. However, Henry defies these trends, continuing to be a dominant force in the league. Over the past four seasons, he has consistently exceeded 300 touches, showcasing his ability to carry the workload while amassing 12 or more rushing touchdowns in four straight years, and achieving this feat in seven of his last eight seasons.
As of early September, Derrick Henry's average draft position (ADP) stands at 19.4, positioning him as a late second-round pick in many fantasy football leagues. Experts from Pro Football Network (PFN) rank him 18th overall, making him the ninth running back in fantasy rankings this year. This places him just below De’Von Achane of the Miami Dolphins and above Kenneth Walker of the Kansas City Chiefs, indicating that he remains a valuable asset for fantasy managers.
When considering whether to draft Henry, it's crucial to understand his playing style. While he is a powerhouse in the running game, his contributions in the passing game have been minimal. In fact, he has recorded fewer than 20 receptions in each of the last two seasons while playing for the Baltimore Ravens. Despite this, his ability to handle a heavy workload is unquestionable; he has surpassed 300 carries in four of his last six seasons and has accumulated a remarkable 32 rushing touchdowns over the past two years. In 2024, he nearly reached 2,000 rushing yards, and in 2025, he fell just short of 1,600 rushing yards.
However, there are considerations regarding his age and the potential for decline. While Henry has been exceptional throughout his career, the inevitable question arises: when will he begin to slow down? Despite these concerns, his current ADP makes him an enticing option. The Ravens' backfield appears stable, with no immediate threats to his starting position, even if he experiences some regression. His track record of scoring double-digit rushing touchdowns every year since 2018 is impressive and suggests that he can still deliver significant fantasy value.
Given his current ADP as a late second-round pick, many fantasy managers should consider taking a chance on Henry. He has proven to be a touchdown machine, and his consistent performance makes him a worthwhile investment. While some may worry about his age, his recent performances indicate that he still has plenty to offer.
In terms of his Week 1 fantasy outlook, the Colts' defense allowed the third-fewest yards per carry after contact to running backs last season. However, this statistic may not fully reflect the challenges they will face against a player of Henry's caliber, who has demonstrated an ability to perform regardless of age. The saying that 'age is just a number' certainly applies to Henry, who has maintained his scoring prowess over the years.
As the 2026 season approaches, Henry remains an outlier in the running back landscape. If fantasy managers are considering their options, it would be wise to keep an eye on Henry as a potential steal in the late second round.
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