OWINGS MILLS — Ravens wide receiver Zay Flowers got a close-up look at running back Derrick Henry, and it made an impression.
“One play, I think [Derrick Henry] had a stretch zone when we were in practice a couple days ago,” Flowers said. “He was running, and I turned around, and he was right in front of me. I was like, ‘Oh!’ And kind of jumped out of the way. Then, he ran back up to me. He was like, ‘I heard you scream, ‘Oh!’ I was like, ‘Yes. I have to get out of the way. … So, it’s way different seeing him in person.”
Henry is flashing his skills and power at the Ravens’ Organized Team Activities. One of the first things coaches notice about Henry is his work ethic.
He attacks every drill with the intensity of a rookie trying to make the team. Ravens coach John Harbaugh appreciates that type of work ethic from a three-time Pro Bowler.
“He is a worker, 100 percent every day, locked in, asks questions, texts his coach at night, ready to go at practice, in the weight room, training room,” Harbaugh said. “[I’m] very impressed. This guy is a true pro, ultimate pro.”
Henry also has demonstrated his versatility He has shown his power and speed as a runner, and that he is adept at catching the ball out of the backfield.
Ravens offensive coordinator Todd Monken is another who has been impressed by Henry.
“He’s been great,” Monken said. “He’s been here the whole offseason, and [it] doesn’t really change anything per se, because to me, he’s a really versatile player, not only running the ball but getting the ball in space and throwing him the ball and getting him out on the perimeter and see if some of your defensive backs can tackle him. That’s why we’re doing this now.
“That’s why we’re here now, to work through that and see what we have, because no one here has worked with him, so now, we’re just seeing what that is and giving him those opportunities.”
The new kickoff rules also provide an opportunity for more players to get involved with special teams. While the Ravens are still coming up with schemes for that part of the game, don’t expect to see Henry or Flowers running down the field on kickoffs or punts.
“I can almost guarantee it. Those guys will not be back there,” special teams coach Chris Horton said with a laugh.
