The Baltimore Ravens have one of the NFL's premier running backs in Derrick Henry. Everyone knows that. We've all also learned of his humility. If you ask the former 2020 Offensive Player of the Year and five-time Pro Bowler where Baltimore's rushing attack begins, he won't mention himself.
He'll instead point to the five players lining up in front of him. As Baltimore installs a new offense during training camp with Declan Doyle, Henry believes their importance has only grown. Explosive runs and productive afternoons don't happen because of one talented ball carrier. They happen because an entire unit works together to create opportunities before the running back ever touches the second level.
For Henry, that's where every successful rushing
attack begins.
Derrick Henry credits Baltimore's offensive line.
While speaking with the media on Wednesday, Henry gave credit to a unit that has been the subject of considerable concern and criticism rather than focusing on his own role. He made it clear that the offensive line deserves much of the credit whenever the Ravens find success on the ground.
"Those guys up front mean everything. They make everything go. Without those guys, none of this works. They have to communicate, they have to play together, and they have to be on the same page every single snap. As a running back, you're trusting those guys to create lanes, and it's our job to hit them."
He added that building chemistry during training camp is just as important as learning the playbook.
"It takes everybody. It takes the offensive line, the tight ends, the receivers blocking downfield, everybody doing their job. When everybody is connected, that's when explosive plays happen."
Baltimore's offense depends on collective execution
Henry's comments reflect one of the recurring themes throughout Ravens camp: accountability. Whether coaches are discussing communication on defense or players are describing the new offense, the message has remained remarkably consistent.
Success won't depend on one superstar making highlight plays. It will come from every player understanding his assignment and executing it consistently.
That philosophy places added importance on Baltimore's offensive line. While Henry has built a Hall of Fame-caliber career by finishing runs, he made it clear that the work often begins long before the football reaches his hands. If the Ravens' offensive line develops the cohesion Henry believes it's capable of, Baltimore's new offense could become one of the league's most balanced and dangerous units this season.
This article originally appeared on Ravens Wire: Derrick Henry explains why Ravens’ rushing attack starts up front
