The Tennesee Titans have placed their franchise tag on running back Derrick Henry, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Henry was a revelation for the Titans last season and will now join quarterback Ryan Tannehill as their two key free agents set to make a return to the club.
Titans placed franchise tag on RB Derrick Henry, per source.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 16, 2020
After being under utilized during his first two NFL seasons, the Tennessee Titans unleashed Derrick Henry and it paid off in the form of an unexpected trip to the AFC Championship game. Henry led the entire league in rush yards and is now set to make historic money for a running back under the franchise tag next season.
The Titans had already tried to clear up as much salary cap space as possible by releasing impact veterans such as Cameron Wake, Delanie Walker and Dion Lewis so it is interesting that Derrick Henry got the tag instead of a long-term deal.
Franchise tags are a risky game in the NFL, specifically when it comes to running backs. Henry features a punishing play style as well so the window of his physical prime may be shorter than most other backs.
Last year was Henry’s second straight season with more than 1,000 yards but perhaps the Titans need to see a bit more before signing him long-term. With Tannehill and Henry now locked in for at least one more season, the Titans could be a darkhorse to make noise in the playoffs yet again next year.
