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Derrick Henry Confidently Names Best Player in the NFL

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Max Escarpio | Last updated Jan 9, 2025 8:58 AM ET

Derrick Henry and the Baltimore Ravens are headed into the playoffs as the No. 3 seed in the AFC. In Henry's first year with the Ravens, Baltimore finished the season with a 12-5 record.

As the team prepares for an AFC Wild Card Game against the rival Pittsburgh Steelers, Henry spoke with the media, sharing his thoughts on his first season with the organization.

The 31-year-old has been widely viewed as one of the best players in the NFL for years, but he recently revealed his clear-cut pick for the No. 1 player in the league.

"Lamar (Jackson) is the main reason why I came here," Henry said. "To play with a Hall of Fame quarterback. He's the best player in the league."

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Jackson is currently in the race for the NFL MVP, having already won the prestigious award twice in his career.

The dual-threat quarterback is having a stellar season in 2024, producing 41 touchdown passes and 4,172 passing yards at an extremely efficient rate. He has the No. 1 QBR in the NFL (77.5), with a 66.7 completion percentage and only four interceptions on the season.

Jackson also has 915 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

Heading into the postseason, Jackson is listed at +320 to take home the MVP trophy, the second-best odds in the NFL behind Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (-450), per DraftKings Sportsbook.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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