Tennessee Titans offensive coordinator Matt LaFleur suggested that running backs Derrick Henry and Dion Lewis will be labeled as 1A and 1B on the depth chart. It appears that notion has remained true heading into training camp.
Tennessee has made it clear that they plan on relying on a versatile rushing attack much like they have in recent years. However, according to Jim Wyatt of the team's official website, Henry will be treated as the lead back moving forward:
But the plan is for him to be the lead back. He’s proven to be a strong and durable runner, but he’s also focused on getting better as a pass catcher and in pass protection.
The update hardly comes as any surprise. Henry has long been groomed for the workhorse role ever since he was taken in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft. He served as a solid complementary back to the recently-retired DeMarco Murray. It appears his time to lead the Titans' backfield in the third year of his career.
This does not mean that Lewis is going to simply fall by the wayside. He managed to etch out a lead role for himself in the crowded New England Patriots' backfield last season. His receiving prowess will likely make him the go-to back in passing situations.
However, Henry's desire to get better in the passing game makes it seem as though will be looking to secure a three-down role. That said, it will be interesting to see how the pecking order shakes out.
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