Late for Work: How Will Saquon Barkley’s New Deal Impact Derrick Henry?
Saquon Barkley’s new contract has sent ripples through the NFL, not just for the New York Giants but for the entire running back market. With Barkley securing his payday, all eyes now turn to another star running back—Derrick Henry. The Tennessee Titans’ bruising back is set to hit free agency, and Barkley’s deal could set a precedent for what Henry might command on the open market.
Barkley’s Deal: A Benchmark for Henry?
Barkley reportedly signed a multi-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles worth $37.75 million over three years, with $26 million guaranteed. This contract signals a shift in how teams value top-tier running backs, particularly as the position has been increasingly devalued in recent years.
For Henry, this raises a crucial question: Will his next deal fall in line with Barkley’s contract, or will his unique power-running style push him into a different salary bracket? While Barkley is younger and more versatile, Henry remains one of the most dominant rushers in the league. His next team will have to weigh his age (he turns 31 in 2025) against his game-changing ability.
Market Implications for Henry
With Barkley’s contract as a reference point, Henry’s market value may be affected in the following ways:
- Contract Length & Guarantees – Teams might be hesitant to offer Henry a long-term deal given his age and heavy workload over the years. Barkley’s three-year deal suggests that even elite backs are now being given shorter contracts with moderate guarantees.
- Annual Salary Expectation – Barkley’s contract averages just over $12.5 million per year. While Henry’s past production has been superior, his age could make it difficult for him to surpass that number. He might be looking at a short-term, incentive-laden contract rather than a massive long-term payday.
- Team Fit & Demand – Not every team is willing to invest heavily in a power back. If a contender sees Henry as a missing piece for a Super Bowl run, he could land a lucrative short-term deal. However, if the market is lukewarm, he may have to settle for a contract similar to Barkley’s or less.
Henry’s Best Landing Spots
With Barkley off the market, Henry remains the top free-agent running back available. Here are a few teams that could be in the mix:
- Baltimore Ravens – A team that thrives on a strong run game, Henry would be a perfect fit alongside Lamar Jackson.
- Dallas Cowboys – With Tony Pollard potentially leaving, Henry could give the Cowboys’ offense a much-needed boost.
- Buffalo Bills – Adding a power back like Henry could take pressure off Josh Allen and give the Bills’ offense more balance.
- Chicago Bears – With a young QB and an emerging offense, Henry could be a veteran presence to help the team take the next step.
The Bottom Line
Saquon Barkley’s new contract will undoubtedly impact Derrick Henry’s negotiations, but the two players aren’t exact comparisons. Henry’s age and playing style might make it difficult for him to command a massive deal, but his reputation as a game-changing force should still earn him a strong contract in free agency. Whether he gets Barkley-level money or something less remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—his next move will shake up the NFL landscape.
