The Los Angeles Rams cut running back Darrell Henderson ahead of Week 12. This release was somewhat shocking, as Henderson was the de facto starter after Cam Akers had a strange and disappointing start to the 2022 season. He can now be claimed by any team in need of his services on waivers.
Here are three potential landing spots for Darrell Henderson, Jr.
Buffalo Bills
The Bills made a last-moment trade for former Colts running back Nyheim Hines at the trade deadline. This was supposed to add some backfield depth, but he has just one reception and one rushing attempt since joining the team. Hines is mostly serving as a return specialist.
While Buffalo already has a bit of a crowded backfield with Singletary, Moss and the rookie Cook all sharing time, Henderson could still be a good addition. He’s known as a “bowling ball” back that can squeeze out tough yards and move the pile when given the chance. There are certainly packages in which Henderson can be utilized well, and he could add some physicality to this rushing offense.
Kansas City Chiefs
The Chiefs are also a Super Bowl-ready team with a bit of a crowded backfield, but the same optimism could apply if they decide to add Henderson. Kansas City, so far, has Clyde Edwards-Helaire, who is having a down year, Jerick McKinnon who almost cost them a game with a fumble and the speedy rookie, Isaiah Pacheco.
Henderson fills the same need as he would with the Bills. Pairing him with Pacheco gives the team a one two punch of finesse and speed, if Pacheco continues to play well. Kansas City probably hasn’t lost all faith in Edwards-Helaire, but Henderson gives them flexibility if he gets hurt again, or doesn’t grab those tough yards.
Cincinnati Bengals
Henderson is comparable to Bengals running back Joe Mixon, who is recovering from a concussion, but otherwise has been relatively healthy so far in his NFL career. Their other featured back, Samaje Perine, is definitely more of a pass-catching and needle-threading threat than a between-the-tackles runner.
If Cincinnati chooses to sign him, it could give them two heavy backs to not only pass protect, but sub in and out to keep legs fresh for the playoffs. The same plays the Bengals run for Mixon could just be hoisted onto Henderson with no real issues. This move makes a lot of sense if the team wants to keep everyone healthy and a bit more rested as they gear up for another Super Bowl run.
Stay tuned for more breaking NFL content, including midseason moves, contract updates and more news from every team.
Featured image courtesy of Harry How/Getty Images
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