When he makes his return to the field in the divisional round against the Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry is expected to be a full go, or at least close to it.
Henry, who hasn’t suited up since Week 8, is coming back from a broken bone in his foot that sidelined him for the final nine games of the season.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Henry will be “close to full go,” and that the bone is almost completely healed and is strong enough to withstand what Henry will face on the field.
The superstar back has a steel plate in his foot, and one in his shoe for added protection.
The metal plate is a modified orthotic to protect the foot from stress and stop it from flexing. It takes pressure off the repaired area to keep it safe while he’s running and cutting. He can run without any reservations.
As for the plate, it’s considered more secure and stable than simply inserting a screw into the repaired metatarsal. Henry actually has one plate and five screws in his foot.
Rapoport also notes that Henry did plenty of extensive training and cardio to get himself ready, and he’s in “top physical form.”
ESPN’s Dianna Russini reports that Henry will not be on a snap count and will have no limitations, but the coaching staff will be watching him closely.
I was told Derrick Henry will not be on a snap count, he will have no limitations, and the coaching staff will keep a close eye on him to watch his conditioning and comfort.
The team practiced in pads this week to get him ready to take his hits.— Dianna Russini (@diannaESPN) January 22, 2022
The Titans and Bengals will meet at Nissan Stadium on Saturday, with kickoff set for 3:30 p.m. CST.
