Skip to content

Eddie George: Titans' Henry has ability to be MVP

Wesley Hitt / Getty Images Sport / Getty

So far, the playoffs have been Derrick Henry's domain.

After sharing the backfield with DeMarco Murray throughout the regular season, Henry had the rushing duties all to himself during the Tennessee Titans' opening-round victory over Kansas City. He'll be the lead back again for Saturday's divisional round game against the New England Patriots, with Murray ruled out due to injury.

The sophomore flourished in that role against the Chiefs, rushing 23 times for 156 yards, including a 35-yard touchdown.

And a franchise legend believes Henry has even more in him.

"He has the ability to lead the league in rushing. I think he has the ability to be the league MVP," former Titans/Houston Oilers running back Eddie George told Cameron Wolfe of ESPN.

"The sky is the limit. We're scratching the surface in what he can do. The more opportunities he gets, the better he gets."

Henry has said he gets stronger the more carries he receives, but the Titans have largely been cautious about putting too much on his plate. However, he's been getting all he can handle in recent weeks.

Meanwhile, Murray has two years remaining on his contract, but he can be released after the season without the team incurring any dead money. With that in mind, Henry could be set to take over as the No. 1 runner moving forward.

And that may be all he needs to succeed.

"I have no question that Derrick can be a 1,500-to-1,800-yard type of running back when he gets the opportunities," George said.

Daily Newsletter

Get the latest trending sports news daily in your inbox