NFL analyst compares Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson to premier Los Angeles Lakers duo

Baltimore Ravens stars Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson have quietly gotten through the 2024 offseason without much attention. However, the two might soon be remembered as one of the most dynamic duos in recent sports history. At least, that is what one NFL analyst believes.

Speaking on Tuesday's edition of "Good Morning Football," former Miami Dolphins defensive end Akbar Gbajabiamila compared Henry and Jackson to Shaquille O'Neal and Kobe Bryant. Here's how he put it:

"What they (Baltimore Ravens) have done in this offseason by picking up Derrick Henry is equivalent to when the Los Angeles Lakers brought in Shaquille O'Neal to help out Kobe," Gbajabiamila said.

"This is the Shaquille O'Neal right here. This dude is a monster. ... Ain't nobody want to see that type of nonsense. 'Oh, you think I want to see Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson in the backfield?' That is a nastiness nobody is prepared for."

The Ravens, of course, have been a run-first team since the end of the Joe Flacco era. However, Lamar Jackson has been left to tote the rock for most of it. The team has made investments at the traditional running back spot throughout the years, but there hasn't quite been a star at the position. With Henry now on the squad, the hope is the team can run even harder, stronger and better this season.

That said, with Henry's age now a factor at 30, it is unclear how long the duo will last productively. Still, with the team coming off an AFC championship appearance without Henry, fans have reason to hope for a greater ceiling in 2024.

Derrick Henry under massive pressure to deliver as only key starting offseason offensive addition

Derrick Henry at Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Houston Texans - Source: Getty

The Baltimore Ravens are already built to go far in the playoffs based on the mere fact they reached the doorstep of the Super Bowl last season. However, when a team gets that close to the big game, it is often stuck with the roster it has.

With Henry alone getting added as the key addition on offense, he appears to be looked at as the final piece. This is bound to add pressure on the running back. If the Baltimore Ravens don't go as far or even take a step back this season for any reason, Henry could be the one holding the blame.

Some may term that to be unfair, but that's sometimes how business works in the NFL. Was adding Derrick Henry to the equation just enough to get past Patrick Mahomes and the rest of the AFC contenders this season?

If any of the above quotes are used, credit "Good Morning Football" and H/T Sportskeeda.