Derrick Henry kicked off his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens by scoring the first touchdown of the 2024 NFL season against the Kansas City Chiefs. After joining the Ravens this offseason from the Tennessee Titans, the two-time rushing champion made an immediate impact in the season opener.
On the Ravens’ opening drive, Henry burst through the Chiefs’ defense for a five-yard touchdown run, making a significant contribution to an 11-play, 70-yard drive. During this drive, he carried the ball five times, accumulating 17 rushing yards. Ultimately, Henry completed the game with 13 carries for 46 yards and one touchdown. Quarterback Lamar Jackson also had a notable performance, accumulating 122 yards on 16 carries.
This opening touchdown exemplifies the Ravens’ game plan to utilize Henry heavily this season, forming a potent rushing duo with Jackson. However, the Ravens were unable to secure a victory, as the Chiefs won the game 27-20 in a thrilling contest that came down to the final moments.
Despite facing some challenges during their initial drive, including three illegal formation penalties, the Ravens managed to secure three first downs and the touchdown. Kansas City quickly retaliated, with rookie Xavier Worthy scoring a 21-yard touchdown on his first NFL touch. The Chiefs led 13-10 at halftime and maintained that lead throughout the second half. Baltimore’s final effort to equalize fell short when a potential touchdown by Isaiah Likely was ruled out of bounds in the back of the end zone.