Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens

As the Baltimore Ravens make a push for the AFC North title and a deep playoff run, running back Derrick Henry has emerged as an increasingly central figure in the team’s offensive strategy—with coaches expanding his role to compensate for Lamar Jackson’s recent injury limitations, exploit opposing defenses, and add a physical edge to the Ravens’ attack. Since joining the Ravens in free agency this offseason, Henry has already proven his value: he’s rushed for 890 yards and 10 touchdowns in 13 games, but his impact is set to grow even more in the final stretch of the season. From more carries in short-yardage situations to expanded involvement in the passing game, the Ravens are leaning into Henry’s unique skill set—turning the former NFL rushing champion into a multi-dimensional weapon. Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens explores the reasons behind this strategic shift, how Henry is adapting to his new responsibilities, and what it means for the Ravens’ playoff aspirations.

Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens begins with the most practical driver of this change: Jackson’s recent ankle and shoulder injuries, which have limited his mobility and deep passing ability. With Jackson less likely to extend plays with his legs or throw deep consistently, the Ravens have turned to Henry to shoulder more of the offensive load—both to control the clock and reduce pressure on Jackson. In Week 14 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, for example, Henry received 25 carries (a season high) for 117 yards and a touchdown, while Jackson threw just 19 passes. The game plan worked: the Ravens won 24-17, and Henry’s carries helped keep the Steelers’ defense off balance and limit their time of possession (the Ravens held the ball for 35 minutes, compared to Pittsburgh’s 25). “When Lamar’s mobility is limited, we need someone to take control of the run game, and Derrick does that better than anyone,” said Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken. “He’s not just a runner—he’s a game manager who can wear down defenses and set up our passing plays.” This shift has been gradual but noticeable: Henry’s carries per game have increased from 15 in the first half of the season to 20 in the last five games.

Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens shifts to another key reason for Henry’s expanded role: his ability to exploit the defensive tendencies of the Ravens’ remaining opponents. Teams like the San Francisco 49ers (Week 15) and Miami Dolphins (Week 16) rank among the top 10 in the NFL in passing yards allowed but are more vulnerable against the run—both rank 18th or lower in rushing yards allowed per game. The Ravens’ coaching staff has identified this weakness and plans to use Henry to force these defenses to commit more players to the box, which will open up passing lanes for Jackson and create opportunities for tight end Mark Andrews and wide receiver Rashod Bateman. Film from recent practices shows the Ravens adding more “power run” plays to their playbook—like the “counter trey” and “iso” (isolation) runs—that play to Henry’s strength of breaking tackles and gaining yards after contact. Henry leads the NFL in yards after contact per carry (4.2), a statistic that makes him ideal for breaking through stacked boxes. “Defenses know we’re going to run with Derrick, but they still can’t stop him,” said Ravens offensive line coach Joe D’Alessandris. “He’s the kind of player who makes your offensive line better, because he turns 2-yard gains into 5-yard gains and wears down defensive linemen over time.”

Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens delves into the expansion of Henry’s role beyond just running the ball—specifically, his increased involvement in the passing game. While Henry has never been known as a receiving back (he’s averaged just 1.5 catches per game in his career), the Ravens have started using him more in check-downs, screen passes, and even red-zone targets to keep defenses guessing. In Week 13 against the Los Angeles Chargers, Henry caught three passes for 28 yards, including a 12-yard screen pass that set up a Ravens touchdown. The team plans to build on this success, adding more “dump-off” plays where Jackson can quickly get the ball to Henry if his primary receivers are covered. For the Baltimore Ravens, this expansion makes their offense more unpredictable: defenses can no longer focus solely on stopping Henry’s runs—they now have to account for him in the passing game, which creates more space for other playmakers. “Derrick’s receiving ability is underrated, and we’re starting to tap into that,” Monken said. “When he’s on the field, defenses have to cover every inch of the field, and that’s exactly what we want.” Henry has embraced the new role, spending extra time with Jackson and wide receivers coach Keith Williams to work on route running and hands.

Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens explores the impact of Henry’s expanded role on team morale and chemistry. As a 10-year veteran and former MVP candidate, Henry has become a leader in the Ravens’ locker room—especially for younger players like running back Gus Edwards and rookie offensive lineman Tyler Linderbaum. His work ethic (he’s the first player in the facility every morning and stays late to study film) has set a standard for the team, and his willingness to take on more responsibility has inspired confidence in his teammates. For the Baltimore Ravens, Henry’s presence has not only strengthened the offense but also unified the team—giving them a focal point to rally around during the stressful playoff push. “Derrick leads by example, and that’s contagious,” said Jackson. “When you see a guy who’s already achieved so much still working this hard and taking on more, it makes you want to do the same. He’s exactly what we needed this season.” Henry’s leadership was on full display after the Ravens’ Week 12 win over the Cincinnati Bengals, where he gave a post-game speech emphasizing the importance of “staying hungry” and focusing on one game at a time.

Derrick Henry's Role Expands in Plans for the Baltimore Ravens wraps up with the long-term implications of this strategic shift and what it means for the Ravens’ playoff chances. If Henry can continue to carry the run game and contribute in the passing game, the Ravens will have a more balanced and resilient offense—one that can win close games even if Jackson isn’t at full strength. This balance is crucial in the playoffs, where defenses are more disciplined and mistakes are more costly. For the Baltimore Ravens, Henry’s expanded role is more than just a short-term adjustment—it’s a strategic investment in their playoff success. “Derrick Henry is a playoff-caliber player, and we’re using him like one,” said Ravens head coach John Harbaugh. “He has the ability to take over games, wear down defenses, and make the big plays when we need them most. That’s the kind of player you need to win championships.” As the Ravens prepare for their final four games, all eyes will be on Henry—whether he’s breaking tackles on a key third-down run, catching a screen pass to extend a drive, or leading his teammates in the locker room. For Ravens fans, Henry’s expanded role is a reason for optimism—proof that the team has the talent and strategy to make a deep run in the playoffs.