Emmitt Smith Endorses Derrick Henry's Pursuit of NFL All-Time Rushing Record

As the 2026 NFL season unfolds on this September 17, the football world is buzzing with a debate that transcends eras: Can Derrick Henry, the Baltimore Ravens' bruising running back, eclipse Emmitt Smith as the NFL's all-time leading rusher? According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the legendary Smith himself believes it's not just possible—it's probable. In a recent interview with DraftKings, Smith expressed confidence in Henry's ability to surpass his monumental record of 18,355 career rushing yards. "Oh yeah, I think it's possible," Smith said. "Derrick Henry is a bigger back. He takes good care of his body. He's in great shape." This endorsement from the Hall of Famer adds a compelling layer to Henry's already storied career.

Henry's Historic Start to 2026

Henry, now 32, has shown no signs of slowing down. In a Week 1 victory over the Indianapolis Colts, he rumbled for 144 rushing yards and three touchdowns, immediately silencing any doubters. That performance propelled him to 10th on the NFL's all-time rushing list, with 13,162 career yards. He now needs 5,193 yards to overtake Smith, a milestone that once seemed untouchable. As reported by the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk, Henry's unique combination of size (6-foot-3, 252 pounds), speed, and durability has allowed him to defy the typical aging curve for running backs. His offseason training regimen and meticulous attention to recovery have kept him in peak condition, fueling speculation that he could play well into his late 30s.

Smith's Personal Connection to Henry's Journey

Smith's belief in Henry isn't just based on professional admiration—it's personal. "Y'all don't know this, but Derrick Henry broke my high school record," Smith revealed. "He broke my state high school record. So I believe he can do it again." Smith amassed 8,804 rushing yards at Escambia High School in Florida before his legendary Cowboys career, while Henry rewrote the record books at Yulee High School with a staggering 12,124 yards. That early dominance foreshadowed Henry's NFL success, which includes five Pro Bowl selections, two rushing titles (2019, 2020), and three rushing touchdown crowns (2019, 2020, 2024).

The Case for Henry as the GOAT

Former NFL offensive tackle Terron Armstead, a five-time Pro Bowler, recently argued on NFL on CBS that Henry deserves consideration as the greatest running back of all time. "I think we're not vocal enough about Derrick Henry being the greatest running back of all time, arguably," Armstead said. "We talk about him being a Hall of Famer, but it is time to really have that conversation... He may be the greatest running back of all time." Armstead pointed to Henry's relentless production despite playing in different offenses and behind varying offensive lines. "Since then, he's been incredible, unstoppable... He has been a constant level of elite production," Armstead added. As highlighted on Vulius, this sentiment is gaining traction among fans and analysts who appreciate Henry's old-school, physical running style in an era of pass-happy offenses.

What's Next for Henry and the Ravens?

Henry's pursuit of Smith's record will be a season-long storyline, especially if he maintains his current pace. The Ravens, who acquired him in 2024, have leaned heavily on his talents, and he's responded with back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. If he continues to average over 100 yards per game, he could surpass Smith by the 2029 season. For now, Henry remains focused on helping Baltimore compete for a Super Bowl, but his place in NFL history is already secure. As the season progresses, the Vulius Sports team will continue to track his journey, providing in-depth analysis and exclusive merchandise for fans eager to celebrate his achievements.

"I think we're not vocal enough about Derrick Henry being the greatest running back of all time, arguably." — Terron Armstead

With every stiff-arm and touchdown, Henry chips away at the record and the debate. Whether he ultimately catches Smith or not, his legacy as one of the most dominant runners ever is undeniable. For now, the football world watches in awe as a modern-day titan chases a legend.