Christopher Russo calls for Jerry Jones to end Tony Pollard’s starting role with blockbuster trade - “How about Derrick Henry?”
Derrick Henry and Tony Pollard are two very different styles of running backs. However, the two might combine like peanut butter and jelly, assuming that the sandwich is made with more jelly than peanut butter.
Speaking on First Take, NFL analyst Chris Russo indicated as much as he called for Jerry Jones to hand over the starting reins to Henry. Here's how he put it when asked for a potential Cowboys addition:
"[00:00:02] How about Derrick Henry? I think they need a running back. Pollard is a great change-of-pace guy. They need a guy to get 20-25 carries a game when Dak's off on the road in a big spot. [Someone who can] move the chains, play four-minute football."
He continued, stating his belief that the running back can still send defenses scrambling:
"Tennessee is going nowhere. I'm not exactly sure if, in fact, they know what their future is right now. It sounds like Hopkins might get traded too. So from that standpoint, I would think Henry is available. I still think he's still got some tread on the tires. [00:00:44]"
Derrick Henry era teeters with Titans
The Titans are sellers at the trade deadline. They've already moved on from safety Kevin Byard and many believe their top running back and wide receiver are available. Henry and Hopkins are both approaching the end of their conventional primes. Henry turns 30 this season and Hopkins is 31 years old.
In running back terms, Derrick Henry is at an age where he wouldn't get much side-eye if he decided to hang it up. Hopkins is also almost in the same boat. Most believe the rebuild is coming and if it goes as fast as most do, both stars won't be around to see the payoff.
As such, the Titans have big reasons to move on from the running back. Still, that doesn't mean that he doesn't provide value right now. This season, Henry has accrued 425 yards on 98 carries, three touchdowns, and is averaging 3.9 yards per carry. In comparison, Dak Prescott's top running back has rushed 96 times for 370 yards and averages 3.9 yards per carry.
At his current pace, Henry should easily crack the 1000-yard mark and get well over five touchdowns. In other words, he's still a starter in the NFL. However, will he remain one with the Titans?
If any of the above quotes are used, credit First Take and H/T Sportskeeda.