Derrick Henry came closer to joining the Dallas Cowboys than many realized. The running back showed interest in making Dallas, where he trains during the offseason, his permanent residence.
However, a significant obstacle arose: financial constraints. Cowboys owner Jerry Jones revealed that the team could not accommodate the four-time Pro Bowler’s salary demands.
Henry ultimately signed with the Baltimore Ravens, where he showcased his talent on Sunday by rushing for 151 yards and two touchdowns, contributing to Baltimore’s 28-25 victory at AT&T Stadium. This performance likely made Jones regret not securing the veteran running back.
After the Cowboys suffered their second consecutive home loss, Jones explained why Henry is now with the Ravens instead of the Cowboys.
“We couldn’t afford Derrick Henry,” Jones said with a laugh when asked about the situation. “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. It’s as simple as that.”
Henry signed a two-year deal worth $16 million with the Ravens after spending the first eight years of his career with the Tennessee Titans.
The Cowboys were in need of a strong running back after losing Tony Pollard. Currently, their depth chart includes Rico Dowdle, Ezekiel Elliott, and Deuce Vaughn, yet their rushing offense has struggled. Through the first two weeks, they ranked 25th in rushing yards and gained only 51 yards on the ground in Week 3.
Jones acknowledged the team’s lack of production in the running game, emphasizing that it is more complex than simply acquiring a star running back.
“I wouldn’t blame the running game and its struggles over the last three games on any one running back, because it takes offensive linemen to create holes; it requires a passing game to keep the defense honest. Many factors contribute to its success,” Jones said. “This wouldn’t be resolved just by adding [Hall of Famer] Jim Brown.”
Contracts were a significant focus for the Cowboys during the offseason. They postponed extensions for wide receiver CeeDee Lamb and quarterback Dak Prescott, resulting in limited salary cap space. This financial situation ultimately led to their inability to secure a dependable running back.