Titans RB Derrick Henry Returns To Practice, Expected Back For Playoffs

AFC defenders, beware: the best running back in the NFL is making his return just in time for the playoffs.

That would Titans RB Derrick Henry, who was designated to return from injured reserve Wednesday, allowing him to practice, per NFL Network's Ian Rapoport. Henry, 28, had surgery to repair a foot fracture he suffered in the Titans' 34-31 Week 8 win over the Colts on Oct. 31. Initial diagnosis had a 6-10 week estimated recovery time, with Henry making it back after nine weeks.

Even after missing eight games, Henry still ranks No. 6 in the NFL with 937 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns. Henry had a healthy lead in yards at the time of his injury, on pace to go for 2,000 yards for the second consecutive season.

In his absence, Tennessee went 5-3 with a signature 28-16 victory over the Rams in Week 9 on Nov. 7. After being picked up off the streets after Henry's injury, D'Onta Foreman has become the lead dog in the backfield.

Foreman has run for 497 yards and three touchdowns on 112 carries. The Titans still rank No. 3 in the NFL in rushing, averaging 142.5 yards per game. It's a long shot for Henry to play Sunday against Houston, but Tennessee (11-5) is currently the No. 1 seed in the AFC, meaning the automatic bye in round one would give Henry two more weeks to get ready to play.

The Titans have battled through injuries all season long, with the trio of Henry and receivers A.J. Brown and Julio Jones only playing together in five games this season. All three should be healthy and ready to go for the playoffs.


New FanDuel Sportsbook users can make their first bet risk-free up to $1,000. If the bet loses, the FanDuel Sportsbook will refund you in site credit. New users can lock in this offer NOW by clicking this link. 

Follow Nick Geddes on Twitter @NickGeddesNews and on Instagram @nick.geddes. 

Written by
Nick Geddes is a 2021 graduate of the University of Central Florida with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism. A life-long sports enthusiast, Nick shares a passion for sports writing and is proud to represent OutKick.