NFL Trade Rumors: Derrick Henry to NFC North? Insider predicts Titans RB’s next destination
Derrick Henry has proven throughout his career that he's one of the top running backs in the NFL. The former Alabama Crimson Tide will be entering his eighth season in the league this upcoming season. But will it be in a Titans uniform? NFL insider Sam Monson of Pro Football Focus forecasts that Henry will be taking his talents to Chicago in 2023.
Monson said:
"Henry's hard-running style would fit well with Justin Fields in Chicago's backfield."
Monson also notes that it might be hard to find teams willing to take his base salary of $10.5 million, and a nearly $16.4 million cap hit this upcoming season. Derrick Henry has been the catalyst for the Tennessee Titans offense, having a total of 1,750 carries in his time with the franchise.
It was the second-most carries since 2016, trailing just Ezekiel Elliott (1,881). Yet, his 8,335 yards are the most in the NFL since 2016. The All-Pro back has led the league in rushing yards three times, as recently as the 2020 season.
That season, he rushed for 2,027 yards, the eighth player in NFL history to reach that milestone.
For the Chicago Bears, the need for a running back is there as David Montgomery signed with NFC North rival Detroit Lions this offseason. Henry's potential addition to the Bears' offense would give quarterback Justin Fields a safety net in the backfield.
What could a Derrick Henry trade look like between the Titans and Bears?
The Titans could be in the market for at least a second-round pick in this year's draft in a deal for their franchise player. Chicago possesses draft assets following their trade of the top pick to the Carolina Panthers. The Bears got the Panthers' first- and second-round picks this year, holding four of the top 100 selections in the draft overall.
Trading away a player of Derrick Henry's caliber is never easy but could free up over $6 million in cap space this season for Tennessee. The Titans could look to rebuild their team and moving Henry for some draft picks might be the answer.
Time will tell if the Bears will make a move for the 2020 AP Offensive Player of the Year this offseason.
If you use any of the above quotes, please credit Pro Football Focus and H/T Sportskeeda.