This summer and preseason was a bit different than recent years for the Tennessee Titans. It was the first time since the 2015 campaign that the Titans went through an offseason program without longtime fan-favorite, Derrick Henry.
The team opted to move on from Henry just before the Titans legend could surpass Eddie George on the franchise's all-time rushing leaderboard. Henry then, of course, signed with the Baltimore Ravens, to go give Lamar Jackson the type of weapon that fits perfectly behind the former MVP.
For some of the more tenured players, it was a difficult move to witness. For example, defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons had spent every season, and every game, walking out of the locker room ready to go to war with Henry, since he was drafted in 2019.
It had been five years running out on the field together, and when Simmons returned to action before the Titans' preseason Week 3 matchup with New Orleans on Sunday, he paid respect to Henry with a heartfelt message. Simmons pretended to shake hands with Henry, as though the running back was standing right next to him in the tunnel.
"This my first time walking out the tunnel without him, man," Simmons said before he headed to the field.
The King, himself, saw the video on social media and responded with some love for his former teammate.
I know you gon hold it down as always @GrindSimmons94 🤞🏾💪🏾💪🏾 https://t.co/njaSHon0it
— Derrick Henry (@KingHenry_2) August 25, 2024
To no one's surprise, Henry's response was loving and classy. He'll always be a Titan, and this year, the team is going to have to figure out how they'll fill the void left by the former All Pro.
With Derrick Henry gone, Jeffery Simmons is the unquestioned leader of the Titans, now
Without Henry, every Titans player, coach, fan and insider would likely agree that the Titans' unquestioned leader is now Simmons. He is, of course, one of the most vocal players on the team and that's raised eyebrows in the past. Simmons has never been shy to speak what's on his mind.
And, while Simmons' outspoken personality can ruffle some feathers, it is time for the 27-year-old to take hold of what's in front of him. The team sees him as a leader, and he needs to see himself as a leader as well. The maturation must happen, at this point. Titans fans love Simmons' tenacity on the field, along with his competitive demeanor.
But, filling the shoes of Henry means it's time for Simmons to take a page out of The King's book. Henry was never the loud and proud type. He let his play do the talking, which might have seemed kind of funny coming from such a physical specimen such as himself.
Simmons, though, needs to take a little from Henry, going forward. He is going to be leaned on heavily in a leadership role, and fans are hoping to see him relish the opportunity.