King Henry in Baltimore: Will the Ravens’ New RB1 Reign Supreme in Fantasy Football?

Derrick Henry, the powerhouse running back, has landed in Baltimore, igniting a spark of excitement among Ravens fans and fantasy football enthusiasts alike. After a stellar 2024 season that saw him rush for 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns, Henry inked a lucrative two-year, $30 million extension with the Ravens, solidifying his place as the team’s undisputed RB1. But the question on everyone’s mind is: can “King Henry” replicate his dominant performance and lead fantasy teams to glory in 2025?

A Match Made in Heaven: Henry in Baltimore’s Offense

The Baltimore Ravens’ offense, orchestrated by Offensive Coordinator Todd Monken, has historically leaned towards a run-heavy approach. However, in 2025, there’s a palpable desire to evolve, incorporating a more balanced attack. Even with the intended evolution, the Ravens’ commitment to the run, combined with their elite offensive line, sets the stage for Henry to thrive.

Last season, the Ravens’ offensive line ranked among the league’s best in both pass and run blocking success. This dominance upfront will provide Henry with the necessary lanes to exploit opposing defenses. Furthermore, quarterback Lamar Jackson’s presence adds another dimension to the running game, forcing defenses to account for his elusiveness and speed.

Fantasy Football Impact: A Potential League Winner?

Derrick Henry’s fantasy football outlook for 2025 is undeniably bright. Several factors contribute to his potential to be a league-winning asset:

Volume: Henry is expected to receive a significant workload, handling the early-down carries and goal-line opportunities. The Ravens rewarded Henry’s legendary work with a two-year, $30 million extension, so there’s absolutely no threat to his early-down dominance.
Touchdown Potential: Henry has consistently found the end zone throughout his career. Since taking over as the Titans’ lead back in 2018, Henry has scored double-digit touchdowns every season. With the Ravens’ potent offense and Henry’s nose for the end zone, he’s poised to continue his touchdown streak.
Rushing Efficiency: In 2024, Henry averaged a career-best 5.9 yards per carry, showcasing his ability to maximize every touch. His 1,921 rushing yards ranked second in the league, further solidifying his status as an elite rusher.
Proven Track Record: Henry’s career speaks for itself. He has amassed 11,423 rushing yards and 106 rushing touchdowns, earning five Pro Bowl selections and an Offensive Player of the Year award.

The Concerns: Age and Wear and Tear

While Henry’s potential is undeniable, some concerns warrant consideration. At 31 years old, Henry is entering the twilight of his career. Running backs typically experience a decline in production as they age, and Henry has already accumulated a significant amount of wear and tear. His 2,355 career carries lead all active running backs.

However, Henry has defied expectations throughout his career, showcasing remarkable durability and resilience. In 2024, he proved that he can still perform at an elite level despite his age and workload.

The Ravens’ Backfield: A Crowded House?

While Henry is the clear RB1 in Baltimore, the Ravens have a stable of talented running backs behind him. Justice Hill, Keaton Mitchell, and Rasheen Ali are all capable of contributing to the offense.

Keaton Mitchell is being talked up as an explosive change-of-pace option as he puts more distance between himself and his 2023 ACL tear, but what goes on behind Henry doesn’t really matter. Neither Mitchell nor Justice Hill will cut into his early-down dominance.

Final Verdict: Reign Supreme He Will

Derrick Henry’s arrival in Baltimore has created a buzz in the fantasy football world. While concerns about age and workload are valid, Henry’s talent, the Ravens’ offensive scheme, and his proven track record suggest that he can indeed reign supreme in fantasy football.

Fantasy managers should feel confident investing a high draft pick in Henry, as he possesses the potential to be a league-winning running back. With a favorable offensive environment and a commitment to the run, “King Henry” is poised to continue his dominant reign in 2025.