In a twist that had the potential to reshape the NFL landscape, star running back Derrick Henry nearly donned the blue and silver of the Dallas Cowboys. The offseason chatter surrounding Henry's possible move to Dallas gained traction due to his training regimen in the city, further fueling speculation among fans and analysts alike. However, it was not to be, as Henry ultimately signed a two-year, $16 million deal with the Baltimore Ravens after a prolific eight-year tenure with the Tennessee Titans.
The possibility of Henry joining the Cowboys was a tantalizing prospect for a team that has struggled mightily on the ground. In the first two weeks of the season, Dallas ranked a dismal 25th in rushing yards, and things did not improve in Week 3 with a paltry 51-yard performance. Henry’s addition would have been a significant boost, but Cowboys owner Jerry Jones was quick to dispel any notion that the move was financially feasible.
"We couldn’t afford Derrick Henry," Jones admitted candidly. "I don't know. Why can't you buy a mansion when you live in a different kind of house? We couldn't afford it. We can't make that all fit. That's as simple as that."
Henry's immediate impact with the Ravens was felt in their triumphant clash with the Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. The veteran running back bulldozed his way to 151 rushing yards and two touchdowns, propelling Baltimore to a narrow 28-25 victory. The Cowboys, already reeling from their first home loss, faced the bitter taste of defeat once again.
Dallas's current depth chart features Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn, but the trio has yet to consistently produce the kind of output necessary to carry the team. Despite their struggles, Jones remained firm in his belief that the solution does not lie in acquiring a single high-profile back.
"I wouldn't direct the running game and lack thereof or where we've been over the last three games to any one running back at all," Jones elaborated. "Because it takes some offensive linemen to blow them out of there; it takes a passing game to keep them honest in the running game. It takes a lot of things to make that work. This wouldn't be solved with just jumping over there and getting [Hall of Famer] Jimmy Brown."
Indeed, the issues plaguing the Cowboys' ground game are multifaceted. Offensive line performance, play-calling balance, and the effectiveness of the passing game all contribute to the current predicament. Additionally, the team's decision to defer contract extensions for key players such as wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott has left them with limited salary cap space, further constraining potential roster moves.
Meanwhile, Henry's presence has fortified the Ravens' backfield, elevating their rushing attack and granting them a formidable edge as the season progresses. Baltimore has embraced Henry's bruising style, allowing him to flourish and provide a steadying influence on their offense.
As the Cowboys navigate these early-season challenges, the pressure mounts to find viable solutions to their running game woes. The team's fortunes could hinge on the ability of their current players to step up and deliver, coupled with strategic adjustments from the coaching staff. While the dream of Henry donning a Cowboys jersey remains unfulfilled, Dallas must focus on making the most of their existing roster to stay competitive in a grueling NFL season.