Former star linebacker and now broadcast analyst Bart Scott believes there's an ideal local location for Tennessee Titans running back and pending free agent Derrick Henry: in Baltimore.
Scott's statement might be an unwelcome opinion for Titans fans, but it aligns with Henry's aim to continue his successful career with a team capable of competing for a Super Bowl.
"To me, it looks like a Derrick Henry-type of team, in my opinion. If you want to be the Ravens and a guy that also can do wildcat stuff," Scott said to Betway. "You go sign a guy like Derrick Henry and ask him if he's ready to win a Super Bowl or try and win the Super Bowl."
Scott, who played 11 seasons at linebacker for the Ravens and New York Jets, shared the thoughts in a recent interview leading up to Super Bowl LVIII. Scott believes Henry could be a great fit in the Ravens offense led by league MVP Lamar Jackson.
During his eight seasons with the Titans, Henry received the Offensive Player of the Year award, was selected to the Pro Bowl four times, and received one first-team All-Pro honor.
"I have been a Tennessee Titan my whole career. I love Tennessee – that's all I have known," Henry said during Pro Bowl week. "I love the fans. This is the first time I've been a free agent, so we'll see what happens. And I'll leave everything else up to God."
Despite expressing dissatisfaction with his performance in the Titans' 6-11 season this year, Henry still managed to accumulate 1,167 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns in 17 games. Additionally, he caught 28 passes for 214 yards.
Titans coach Brian Callahan said he wants to retain Henry if it works out.
"A player like Derrick Henry fits in every offense," Callahan said. "He's been a remarkable player. He's been the face of the franchise here for a long time. When you think of the Tennessee Titans, you think of Derrick Henry. ... If he's open to a return, that fits for us. I'm never going to say no to good players."
Henry is one of 24 Titans free agents. He made $12.5 million last season in the final season of a four-year, $50-million deal. Pro Football Focus gave Henry a 90.2 season grade, third among 59 running backs. PFF projects that Henry could sign a two-year, $20-million deal, of which $13 million would be guaranteed.
"See if he's ready after coming off a lucrative contract if he's willing to play for the right to win," Scott said, hinting at the fact that the Ravens might have to go under projections to sign Henry. "Not disrespect him but give him good money, but not great."
NFL teams can sign free agents beginning on March 13.
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