Sources: Derrick Henry, Titans seeking a deal before the deadline

The Tennessee Titans and star running back Derrick Henry are now working to finalize a deal before the franchise deadline Wednesday at 4 p.m. ET, sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter.

A deal is on the way to being made, according to Schefter.

This marks a change in plans for the team, as a source said Tuesday that the parties were not expected to reach a long-term agreement by the deadline.

Henry won the NFL title with 1,540 yards last season and has posted consecutive seasons of more than 1,000 yards.

Of all the NFL running backs with at least 200 carries last season, Henry’s 5.1 yards per carry was the highest.

Henry proved to be a valuable part of the Titans’ offensive attack, especially in the playoffs.

“I said it before, I will say it again, Derrick [Henry] It is an important part of what we do. Derrick is an important part of our football team, “Titans general manager Jon Robinson said of Henry in the NFL combine in March.” Derrick had a great year for us. He led the league in distress and built on the second half of his 2018 season. He cares about his teammates and works hard and is great in the community. “

By entering the AFC Championship Game, he had represented 69% of the team’s total offense. During the Titans’ run to the playoffs, Henry also became the first player to run 180 yards or more in three consecutive games. The fourth-year running back took a leading role with the Titans last season, receiving praise from coach Mike Vrabel.

“His leadership ability improved. He became a leader,” said Vrabel after the Titans’ 20-13 victory in the New England Patriots. “I think he helped lead this soccer team and took my message and that of our staff to the locker room. His durability, effort and toughness allowed him to be a leader. He was excited and spoke to guys on the field and in the locker room and they listened . “

Since being selected in the second round of the 2016 draft outside Alabama, Henry has rushed for 3,833 yards on 804 carries (4.8 YPC) and scored 38 touchdowns. He also caught 57 passes for 578 yards and three touchdowns. He won the Heisman Trophy in 2016.