The Derrick Henry hype train seems far too sparsely filled at the moment. Get on board, people.
For the fourth preseason game, the rookie running back flashed his bruising potential, galloping over the Miami Dolphins for 62 yards and a touchdown on seven carries and added a reception for six yards. He played just 13 snaps.
Here are all eight touches (watch and then jump on the bandwagon, I'll save you a spot):
In four preseason games, Henry averaged 6.4 yards per carry for 216 yards on 34 totes with three touchdown rushes.
"Yes, he's been consistent for four games and we've seen some really good production from him," coach Mike Mularkey said Thursday, via the team's official website. "That was the last run and I'm glad he broke it like he did before the play was called so they could give him the last one and get him out. A big run, a big physical run. He's shown everything he's capable of doing for four games now. "
"It's just the preseason!" nonbelievers will shout. Don't be a nonbeliever.
Yes, the Heisman Trophy winner faced stouter defenses in the SEC than the past four times he hit an NFL field. Yes, he can improve his blocking and receiving (all rookies can improve). Yes, the string of preseason running back darlings who fizzled in the past are plentiful (Zach Zenner, just last year).
It's not about the stats piled up against defenses made up of future Enterprise salesmen. It's about the traits displayed while racking up those yards.
Check out these back-to-back big runs Thursday night. Please notice that filthy cut on the first -- I thought he had no lateral agility, Mr. NFL Draft Scout?? -- and remember that's a 6-foot-3, 247-pound hammerhead making that nimble slide.
Henry will start the season behind DeMarco Murray, who looks fresher after a sad season in Philadelphia. As we've said in this space numerous times: expect Henry to eat into Murray's load as the season progresses. Henry is too talented to be limited to a backup role for long.
This hype train is about to leave the station. Hop on before we leave you behind.
