Should Derrick Henry Be Shopped by Titans amid Latest NFL Trade Rumors?

Derrick Henry has been the centerpiece of the Tennessee Titans' offense for most of his seven-year NFL career, all of which has been spent with the team. He's been one of the best running backs in the league for much of that time as well.

But there had been some buzz that the Titans might be considering trading the 29-year-old RB this offseason. It wouldn't be the first time they've dealt away a top offensive playmaker, considering they sent wide receiver A.J. Brown to the Philadelphia Eagles last year.

However, it doesn't seem like Tennessee is seeking to move Henry.

According to Jonathan Jones of CBS Sports, the Titans have not been "shopping" Henry, even though there had been some rumors they were. It may not be among the top priorities for new Tennessee general manager Ran Carthon.

"I had been told general manager Ran Carthon would be 'methodical' in his approach to free agency and changes to the team," Jones wrote.

A Henry trade may not be the best way to do that. Especially if the Titans believe they're still in a position to be a top contender in the AFC.

After being limited to eight games due to a foot injury in 2021, Henry returned and proved he's still elite in 2022. He ran for 1,538 yards and 13 touchdowns in 16 games, while also leading the NFL in rushing attempts (349).

Henry has paced the league in carries in three of the past four seasons, with the only exception being his shortened 2021 campaign. There aren't many workhorse RBs like that in the NFL these days.

It's possible Tennessee may not even get a huge return for Henry, who will be turning 30 in January. There's been a tendency for running backs in their 30s to not be quite as productive in the NFL in recent years. And while it's possible that won't be the case with Henry, there's still a risk that teams will associate with his age.

Plus, the Titans went 7-10 last season and still have some strong players on both sides of the ball. With the right offseason moves, they could get back into the playoffs in the 2023 campaign.

But if Tennessee trades Henry, its postseason odds will take a hit. And it may have to enter a rebuilding phase, even though it has some players who are in the prime of their careers.

So, should the Titans be shopping Henry? They should always be listening to offers. Because there's a chance a team comes along and tries to acquire Henry in exchange for a large return.

However, that may not be too likely at this point. And due to that, Tennessee shouldn't be pushing hard to move Henry, making it seem desperate that it wants to move on.

For now, the Titans should keep Henry (who has a $16.37 million cap hit for next season) and build around him the best they can. It may just work out in their favor.