Introduction

Derrick Henry is one of the most dominant running backs in NFL history — a bulldozing runner whose name strikes fear in defenders across the league. Over the years, fans have followed not only his on-field exploits, but also his injury history and even his iconic hairstyle. This article dives deep into whether Derrick Henry is hurt now (or recently), how long he has been in the NFL, and touches upon his hair — all in one comprehensive look.
Derrick Henry’s NFL Career — Years in the League & Career Journey
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Derrick Henry was drafted in 2016, in the second round (45th overall) by the Tennessee Titans.
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As of 2025, he has played 10 seasons in the NFL.
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His career includes time with the Titans (2016–2024) and the Baltimore Ravens (2024–present).
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Over the years, he has established himself as one of the most physically dominant running backs: powerful, tough to tackle, and with a signature style that blends brute force with finesse.
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He’s known for his “old-school” running style, including the use of a stiff arm — since 2017, he has recorded 64 career stiff-arms, 36 more than any other player tracked by ESPN.
In short: Derrick Henry is a veteran with a decade of NFL experience — but clearly still performing at a high level in 2025.
Injury History: Has Derrick Henry Been Hurt? Is He Hurt Today?
Injury History — Key Incidents
Here’s a look at some of the significant injuries Henry has sustained over the years.
| Year / Date | Injury / Issue | Games Missed / Details |
|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Leg calf strain (during pregame warmups) | Missed 1 game. |
| 2019 (Week 16) | Hamstring (thigh) Grade 2 | Missed at least 1 game. |
| 2021 (Week 8) | Pedal foot fracture | Missed 9 games; placed on IR. |
| 2023 (Week 13) | Head cranial injury (unspecified, not a concussion) | Did not enter concussion protocol; returned next game. |
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After the 2021 foot injury, he returned for the playoffs, though some felt he wasn’t quite the same immediately post-injury.
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In 2023, though he sustained a head-region injury, coaches confirmed he did not suffer a concussion, and he returned to play soon after.
Current Status (as of 2025)
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According to a recent injury history tracker, Henry has no active injuries.
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For the 2025 regular season, his stats show he’s active — suggesting he’s healthy enough to be playing.
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Analysts have noted that while running backs of his size and style typically face wear-and-tear, Henry’s dedication to conditioning, training, and recovery have helped him remain effective even into his 30s.
Bottom line: As of now, Derrick Henry does not appear to be hurt or on injury reserve. His history includes some serious injuries — notably a broken foot in 2021 — but he has bounced back, and his 2025 status suggests he remains an active player.
Hair & Identity: The Hairstyle That Became Iconic (and What Changed)
While most discussion around Derrick Henry centers on his elite rushing ability, another feature that made him instantly recognizable: his hairstyle.
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For many years, Henry sported a set of long dreadlocks — a distinguishing look that became part of his identity as a “power back.”
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However, in 2024 he reportedly changed his hairstyle — ditching the dreadlocks for cornrows.
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The change sparked reactions from fans: for some, the dreadlocks were part of his “legend” — when he cut them, there were even lighthearted comparisons to the biblical story of Samson losing his strength.
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Despite concerns or jokes, there’s no credible evidence that the haircut affected his performance — Henry continued to play at a high level after the change.
In short: his haircut — while significant visually and culturally — appears to be purely cosmetic and hasn’t hampered his on-field output.
Why Henry Still Matters in 2025 — Age, Training & Longevity
Many running backs tend to decline entering their 30s — due to wear-and-tear, injuries, and the brutal nature of their role. Yet Derrick Henry seems to be defying that pattern. Here’s why:
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Despite being over 30, Henry remains one of the top performing running backs, a feat uncommon for power backs with heavy usage.
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His hard offseason training — including sprint drills, agility work, strength conditioning, and disciplined nutrition — plays a huge part. Reports say he’s “better now than he was three or four years ago” thanks to this regimen.
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His resilience and durability are notable: even after serious injuries (like the 2021 foot fracture), he returned to high-level performance.
It seems clear: Henry is not just surviving — he is thriving.
FAQ — Common Questions About Derrick Henry’s Health, Career & Hair
Q1: Is Derrick Henry hurt today?
A: As of the 2025 season, there are no reports of active injuries for Derrick Henry. He is listed as active and playing.
Q2: Has Derrick Henry had serious injuries in the past?
A: Yes. Key injuries include a calf strain in 2016, a hamstring issue in 2019, a foot fracture in 2021 (which caused him to miss nine games), and a head-region injury in 2023 (non-concussion).
Q3: How many years has Derrick Henry been in the NFL?
A: He has been in the league since 2016 — which makes 2025 his 10th NFL season.
Q4: Did Derrick Henry change his hair?
A: Yes. Henry moved from his long dreadlocks to cornrows around 2024, a change that drew attention from fans worldwide.
Q5: Does the haircut affect his performance?
A: There’s no evidence to suggest the haircut impacted his performance. He has continued to play at an elite level after the change.
Conclusion
Derrick Henry remains one of the most formidable running backs in the NFL — even more than a decade into his career. His injury history reveals that while he has had serious setbacks (notably the 2021 foot fracture), he has consistently bounced back, maintained fitness, and adapted his training to stay competitive. As of 2025, no active injuries are reported, and his performance suggests he’s still a force to reckon with.
His recent hairstyle change — from iconic dreadlocks to cornrows — generated buzz among fans, but it appears to be a personal/style choice with no bearing on his on-field production.
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