Derrick Henry rang in his 31st birthday with yet another outstanding performance on the football field, cementing his legacy as one of the NFL's greatest running backs. On January 5, 2025, the Baltimore Ravens faced off against the Cleveland Browns at home, where they secured a decisive 35-10 victory. This win not only marked the Ravens' fourth consecutive victory but also solidified their claim to the AFC North title.
Henry’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, rushing for 138 yards on 20 carries and plunging twice across the goal line. These efforts came at the perfect time as they aligned with his birthday celebrations, amplifying the significance of the day. The Ravens clinched the No. 3 seed for the playoffs with their 12-5 record after finishing the regular season strong.
What made this game particularly noteworthy was Henry's historical achievement. With his performance, he became the first player in NFL history to record multiple seasons of at least 1,800 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns. The Baltimore Ravens took to social media to celebrate the moment, declaring, "Derrick Henry first player in NFL HISTORY with multiple seasons of 1,800+ rush yards and 15+ rush TD," according to NFL.
This accomplishment is even more impressive considering the challenges Henry faced throughout his career. Despite playing during an era where the league has shifted to more pass-oriented offenses, Henry's performances have consistently broken records. He is now recognized for having multiple seasons with 1,500 rushing yards and 15+ touchdowns, surpassing even legends like Jim Brown.
Another crowning achievement for Henry came with his first touchdown against the Browns, which established the new franchise record for most touchdowns in a single season with 16, besting Jamal Lewis' previous record of 14. Notably, this achievement occurred during his first year with the Ravens, demonstrating the impact he has had on the team right out of the gate.
Fans and analysts alike have been fascinated by Henry's prowess, especially on his birthday. Social media lit up with praises, with Barstool Sports exclaiming, "DERRICK HENRY ON HIS 31ST BIRTHDAY ALL HAIL THE KING," and Yahoo Sports adding, "Derrick Henry should play on his birthday more often." This enthusiasm reflects not only the joy of his fans but also the respect he commands across the league.
Not to be overlooked, Henry’s quarterback, Lamar Jackson, has also made headlines this season, setting records of his own. Jackson threw for over 4,000 yards and secured 41 touchdown passes during the season, all with just four interceptions. Together, Jackson and Henry have formed one of the most formidable tandems, pushing the Ravens to historic heights. The Ravens became the first team to achieve at least 4,000 passing yards and 3,000 rushing yards in the same season.
Reflecting on Henry’s uniqueness, teammate Lamar Jackson remarked, "They keep saying he broke the record for this and broke the record for this. King Henry … he do it week in and week out," demonstrating the unwavering confidence the team has in Henry's abilities. With both players leading the charge, the Ravens are poised for the upcoming Wild Card round of the playoffs, where they will look to carry their momentum forward.
The road to the Super Bowl is well within reach for the Ravens, and Henry’s relentless drive, accompanied by his record-setting feats, makes this team one to watch as the postseason approaches. His performance against the Browns was not merely another game; it was a blend of celebration and history, showcasing the very essence of sportsmanship and athletic excellence. It leaves fans excited about what the future holds for the King, Derrick Henry, as he leads his team toward potential postseason glory.