Tennessee Titans: 5 Running Back Trade Options after the Derrick Henry Injury
The Tennessee Titans squeaked out a gargantuan divisional win over the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8. Unfortunately, it may have come at the supreme cost. Running back Derrick Henry suffered a potentially season-ending foot injury. The timing couldn't be much more difficult for the Titans. Tomorrow is the NFL's trade deadline. By 3 P.M. CST, […]
The Tennessee Titans squeaked out a gargantuan divisional win over the Indianapolis Colts in Week 8. Unfortunately, it may have come at the supreme cost. Running back Derrick Henry suffered a potentially season-ending foot injury.
The timing couldn't be much more difficult for the Titans. Tomorrow is the NFL's trade deadline. By 3 P.M. CST, could Tennessee make a move for a new running back? These are the five best realistic options on the market right now.
5. Mike Davis, Atlanta Falcons
Davis is the definition of "the safe option" on the market. He replaced Christian McCaffrey last season for the Panthers after his injury and performed well. Now, on the Atlanta Falcons, Cordarrelle Patterson has surprisingly outproduced him. Atlanta is struggling, so they could be potential sellers as the deadline approaches. The addition of Davis would not be the biggest splash, but the fit makes sense.
4. Ty'Son Williams, Baltimore Ravens
The only reason Williams comes in front of Davis is the money involved. He is cheaper than the Falcons RB. Williams broke out for a couple of weeks for the Ravens in the middle of the season, but he has been reserved back into a depth role behind some veterans. Adding him to the RB room for the Titans would give them a bit more balance alongside Jeremy McNichols and Mekhi Sargent. Another option may be added from free agency as well.
3. Ronald Jones II, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Bucs' backup running back is seeing little action on the field so far in 2021. Leonard Fournette has played very well, and Jones has continued to get less and less work as time goes on. TB is a contending team, but they could get somewhat solid value for a player that is not doing much on the field for them. Not to mention, he is still on a very affordable contract. He is another good option for the Titans.
2. D'Ernest Johnson, Cleveland Browns
Johnson has been one of the best stories in the NFL so far in 2021. He came in for a start in place of Browns' running backs Nick Chubb and Kareem Hunt in Week 7. Johnson had 15 carries up to that point this year and proceeded to run all over the Denver Broncos for 146 yards and a touchdown. it is unclear if the Browns would be willing to move him, but the talent and value would be clear for the need for the Titans.
1. Melvin Gordon III, Denver Broncos
This trade would make the most sense for both teams. Gordon, even as a veteran RB, is still producing. Although, Denver has a rookie running back waiting in the wings in Javonte Williams. He is undoubtedly their future at the position, and the Broncos are slipping out of the playoff race slowly. At 4-4, it will be difficult for them to make up ground in a division with the Chargers, Raiders, and Chiefs.
Gordon is the best option on the market, but he also probably has the most expensive price tag. The move would be worth it for the Titans, regardless.
Featured Image via USA TODAY-Sports
