NASHVILLE — Despite various rumors and interested teams, the Tennessee Titans have opted to keep star running back Derrick Henry at this year’s trade deadline.

The trade deadline has passed and King Henry remains a Titan. He practiced on Tuesday afternoon and was active in the locker room. GM Ran Carthon was also spotted on the practice field in Tennessee an hour before the deadline. 

But with this being the last year of his current contract with Tennessee, what could Henry’s future look like after not being traded?

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It’s hard to imagine a world where Henry nets a big pay day in free agency. He will be 30 years old and pushing 2,000 career carries by the time the offseason rolls around. Even with his pedigree as this generation's greatest runner, Henry’s shortcoming in the passing game will make him part-time player for his next team.

To be honest, there may not be a better fit for him than staying in Tennessee.

Henry could still have a lot of value to the Titans. It just won’t be at the $16 million price tag he has attached to him this season. But as a free agent on the open market, it’s not hard to envision a world where the Titans sign Henry to a cheaper deal to continue platooning in the backfield with Tyjae Spears – even if his role diminishes.

Outside of the explosive runner he is, Henry’s locker room leadership and brand alone is worth keeping around. The Titans continue to get criticized for sending iconic players elsewhere. Both A.J. Brown and Kevin Byard are now members of Philadelphia Eagles. As the franchise embarks on a new era and creates a new identity, it couldn’t hurt to have an all-time great in the picture for the right price.

Derrick Henry just feels like someone who needs to retire a Titan. He’s also 1,249 yards away from the all-time franchise rushing record. You’d have to think that one more year in the two-tone blue would get him there.

I’m sure Henry will have some offers as a free agent. But if the Titans express interest in bringing him back, I don’t think there’s a better fit.

Perhaps Henry wants to sign with a contender and chase that elusive Super Bowl ring. Who could blame him? But if he wants carries and an opportunity to build his career legacy, the Titans are the place to do it.

Derrick Henry remains loyal to Titans amidst trade rumors

Just another reason to love Derrick Henry.