Ravens RB Derrick Henry expresses deep gratitude for Nick Saban’s Alabama: “I'm forever indebted”

Derrick Henry, the Baltimore Ravens star running back, took a moment to express his deep gratitude for his time at Alabama, where he took the first steps to establish a legacy. During an appearance on SEC Network, Henry talked about his college career, which set the stage for his NFL success.

“All the work. Blood, sweat, and tears paid off, and to have discipline, my dreams came true. I’m forever indebted to the University of Alabama, for sure,” Henry said.

Henry's journey with the Crimson Tide under legendary coach Nick Saban began in 2013, and he quickly made a name for himself. After a solid freshman season with 382 rushing yards and three touchdowns, he exploded in 2014, racking up 990 yards and 11 touchdowns.

His national championship-winning final year at Alabama was one for the history books. The former Georgia commit rushed for 2,219 yards and 28 touchdowns, earning the Heisman Trophy, All-American honors and the SEC Offensive Player of the Year. "King Henry" was picked by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2016 NFL draft at 45th overall.

Fast forward to 2024, and Henry remains one of the NFL’s top rushers. After leaving the Titans this year, Henry signed a two-year, $16 million contract with the Ravens, teaming up with two-time MVP quarterback Lamar Jackson. This dynamic duo is touted to lead Baltimore to new heights in the 2024 NFL season.

Former Alabama legend Derrick Henry included in NFL Top 50 players

The former Alabama Crimson Tide alum hasn’t stopped making the headlines even after leaving coach Nick Saban’s tutelage. The Ravens running back was ranked No. 49 in the NFL's "Top 100 Players" list. This marks Henry's sixth appearance on the prestigious list, with previous rankings as high as No. 4 in 2021.

Henry, who won the Heisman in 2015, led the NFL with 280 rushing attempts last season, ranking second in rushing yards with 1,167 and scoring 12 touchdowns. His career includes two rushing titles and a rare 2,000-yard season, earning him the AP Offensive Player of the Year award in 2020.

As Derrick Henry joins the Ravens, who boasted the NFL's best regular season record at 13-4, expectations are sky-high. Henry can be the missing piece that leads them to Super Bowl glory.