After the 2023 season, the Tennessee Titans let Derrick Henry’s contract expire, making him a free agent. He then signed with the Baltimore Ravens and has continued to impress the league with his ability, rushing for 1,921 yards and 16 touchdowns in 2024.
Another big-name loss for the Titans in recent memory is wide receiver A.J. Brown, who the Titans traded to the Philadelphia Eagles in 2022. Both losses were big for the Titans, but which one hurt the most? Tennessee native and musical artist Jelly Roll gives his opinion:
“Derrick,” Jelly Roll said without hesitation. “A.J. hurt a lot, but not like Derrick. If you think about it, we’ve had three 2,000-yard rushers. There’s an argument that we’ve had three of the best five or six running backs ever. There’s a real argument for that, right? So losing Derrick was like, no.”
There are also the attitude and character differences between the two players, with Brown being more volatile and unpredictable. Henry has always been, and continues to be, the consummate professional. Brown seems to have found his niche in Philadelphia, though, and is still considered one of the top receivers in the league.
The timing of each loss also impacts feelings. Losing Henry at the same time as Mike Vrabel cost the Titans deeply, and is a large reason the team sits where it does today.