Close Call: Derrick Henry Nearly Joined the Dallas Cowboys
Derrick Henry, one of the NFL's premier running backs, came surprisingly close to joining the Dallas Cowboys, a move that could have significantly altered the dynamics of both Dallas and his current team, the Baltimore Ravens. The star running back, who trains in Dallas during the offseason, ultimately signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Ravens after spending the first eight years of his career with the Tennessee Titans.
Henry's Impact On The Field
Henry made an immediate impact in his debut performance against the Cowboys, rushing for an impressive 151 yards and scoring two touchdowns, leading Baltimore to a narrow 28-25 victory at AT&T Stadium. This game highlighted the talent that nearly ended up on the Cowboys roster and underscored the challenges Dallas faces in their running game.
Running Game Woes For The Cowboys
The Cowboys have struggled on the ground, ranking 25th in rushing during the first two weeks of the season. Their rushing attack managed just 51 yards in Week 3, a glaring issue considering the NFL's increasing emphasis on a balanced offensive attack. Dallas' current depth chart includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn, but none of these backs have delivered the consistent production needed to elevate the team's ground game.
Financial Constraints
Despite the glaring need for an elite running back, the Cowboys found themselves financially constrained, largely due to their decisions on contract extensions for key players like wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott. Jerry Jones, the Cowboys' owner, provided a candid explanation: "We couldn’t afford Derrick Henry. I don't know. Why can't you buy a mansion when you live in a different kind of house? We couldn't afford it. We can't make that all fit. That's as simple as that."
Jones elaborated further on the complexities of the running game, emphasizing that the solution goes beyond acquiring one stellar player. "I wouldn't direct the running game and lack thereof or where we've been over the last three games to any one running back at all," he explained. "It takes some offensive linemen to blow them out of there; it takes a passing game to keep them honest in the running game. It takes a lot of things to make that work. This wouldn't be solved with just jumping over there and getting [Hall of Famer] Jimmy Brown."
The Path Forward
The Cowboys' current situation is a stark reminder of the intricacies involved in building a winning team. While Henry's presence in Dallas could have provided a quick fix, the team's salary cap limitations and broader offensive struggles indicate a need for a more comprehensive approach. The Ravens, on the other hand, have quickly integrated Henry into their scheme, bolstering their running game and adding a new dimension to their offense.
As the season progresses, the Cowboys will need to find ways to address their running game issues if they hope to remain competitive. Whether through player development, strategic acquisitions, or adjustments in their game plan, the path forward requires careful consideration and swift action.
In conclusion, while the thought of Derrick Henry in a Cowboys uniform is tantalizing, the reality of the NFL business and team construction remains complex. The story serves as a poignant reminder of the balance between talent, finances, and the multifaceted components that contribute to a successful season. Dallas, with all its stars and ambitions, must navigate these waters carefully to chart a course back to the top of the league.