Ravens reward Derrick Henry with contract extension after magical season, but history suggests the move could carry real risk

Henry started all 17 games in his first year with Baltimore, proving how available he continues to be on an annual basis in the pros. Henry ran for 1,921 yards and scored 18 total touchdowns a season ago. 

He currently has 11,423 career rushing yards, ranking 19th all-time. There's a chance he enters the top ten in those rankings this season. Henry is one of the most consistent running backs of all-time, and the Ravens took notice of that after just one season.

The risk involved with his new deal

This risk, of course, involves the veteran RB's age throughout this deal. If he's still in Baltimore on the final year of it, he will be playing at age 33. 

When you move the way he does and are built the way Henry is, it is tough to see him slowing down enough for his age to hinder him, considering his recent production. That being said, it is a reality for just about any running back with as much wear and tear on him as Henry. 

We do not see many running backs play well into their 30's due to injuries and an overall reduction in their effectiveness on a particular offense. For Henry, he will try to overturn that narrative and continue to dominate on the ground for Baltimore.