Derrick Henry's thoughts on Tim Kelly being named Titans OC
The number one responsibility of new Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly will be creating a more efficient passing game and designing a game plan to maximize the ability of star running back Derrick Henry. Henry is a generational talent, but at times during the 2022 season, a lackluster offensive line and one-dimensional game plan […]
The number one responsibility of new Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Tim Kelly will be creating a more efficient passing game and designing a game plan to maximize the ability of star running back Derrick Henry.
Henry is a generational talent, but at times during the 2022 season, a lackluster offensive line and one-dimensional game plan put Henry in a difficult situation.
Opposing teams knew that the Titans wanted to play through Henry, particularly on first down, and the offensive line failed to give Henry enough room to gather some momentum and make something happen. He was hit and dropped in the backfield far too often.
With Kelly as the new play caller in Tennessee, that needs to change, and Henry is very much looking forward to getting into Kelly's game plan and having him on board. Henry gave Kelly a great review as both a person and a coordinator, a good sign for the Titans in 2023.
"I love Tim, man," Henry said in an interview with Jim Wyatt. "I feel like Tim has a bright mind. Going against him when he was with the Texans, I feel like he always had a great game plan against us. Watching the Texans throughout the years, he always did a great job with Deshaun (Watson) and all the guys that he had, so I'm excited to have Tim aboard as OC."
Henry also said that Kelly always looked mean and quiet from the opposing sideline when he would cross paths with him and the Houston Texans, but getting to know him last season with the Titans, Henry became a big fan of the personality Kelly brings to the organization.
"Him being on staff and being around him a lot, he's a great guy and has a great personality," said Henry. "We had a good relationship throughout the season just joking and getting to know one another."
Finding a way to maximize Henry and keep defenses on their toes might be the most important task for Kelly as offensive coordinator. In a Mike Vrabel offense that is committed to running the football and controlling the clock, efficiency on the ground is vital.
An early endorsement from the Titans' best player is a good start for Kelly and a sign of the locker room support he will get heading into next season.
Image via Shelley Mays-Imagn Content Services, LLC
