LA Rams RB Darrell Henderson’s future is receiving yards

As the LA Rams have already committed to featuring the running game to running back Cam Akers, the team must find ways to link the production of the other running back, Darrell Henderson, to that offensive output. After all, the Rams want the offensive to be more dangerous and explosive, and the team is already seeking ways to redirect the production of running back Malcolm Brown, wide receiver Josh Reynolds, and tight end Gerald Everett for 2021.

There is no reason to take Henderson’s output offline. The Rams simply need to be a bit more creative in how they harness it for 2021.

Darrell Henderson is a 5-foot-8 208-pound speedy receiver who was drafted by the Rams as a pseudo pair of crutches for then featured running back Todd Gurley. Henderson is a shifty smaller-statured rusher who will not hold up to the 200+ plus carries of a main running back. Instead, he is good for eight carries a game, enough to change the cadence of the Rams offense a bit and throw off the defense.

But Henderson displayed a natural ability to produce via the passing game as well. He converted 24 targets into 16 catches for 159 yards and a touchdown. He was one of eight players on the offensive side of the ball to catch at least one touchdown pass in 2020. The problem is, two of those players are no longer with the Rams.

Henderson is versatile enough to be effective either as a runner or a receiver. He loves to operate in space and will attack the defensive perimeter when used in the running game. He can do so even more effectively on well routes and quick curls in the flat, giving him a chance to use his speed against a slower defender. He operates best when he isn’t crowded and forced to slip through the slightest cracks made by the offensive line.

Put him in space, line him up in the slot or behind and tight end and let him do his magic by racing around the edge. Let him drift into the space vacated by wide receiver DeSean Jackson as he streaks down the field. There are many ways to get Darrell Henderson the football in open space. Once it happens, there will be plenty of reasons to do it again. And again.