Ravens’ star-studded backfield named to midseason NFL All-Pro team

The NFL world was shocked last offseason when Baltimore Ravens star running back Derrick Henry signed a two-year, $16 million deal. Henry, who turns 31 in January, has put an end to the “running backs get worse with age” mantra so far in his tenure with Baltimore.

Henry is already over the 1,000 rushing yard mark through nine games, leading the league with 1,052 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground.

His counterpart in two-time league MVP Lamar Jackson has also put together another strong campaign. Jackson has thrown for 2,379 yards with 20 touchdowns to just two interceptions. He’s also added 505 yards and two scores along the way, en route to making a case for a third MVP trophy.

This is what the Ravens envisioned when they paired Jackson and Henry in the offseason. A dominant backfield that teams would have trouble stopping. Pete Prisco of CBS Sports has noticedand names both of Baltimore’s top playmakers to his midseason NFL All-Pro team.

Prisco had no problem putting Jackson at the top of his list.

This was an easy choice. It’s impressive to see how much he’s improved throwing the football in this Todd Monken offense. He can still get it done with his legs, but it’s his ability to throw it that will see him continue to grow as a player.

Jackson’s development as a passer has been a marvel to watch over the years. While he can still kill defenses with his running ability, teams now have to respect his arm talent. That has been evident this season with his 10:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

When talking about Henry, Prisco mentioned his initial concerns about his effectiveness with the Ravens. He quickly admitted how wrong he was.

When they signed him this offseason, I really wasn’t sure if he was going to be the same back as he was in his prime. He is that and much more. He can still rip off long runs and run over people.

The Ravens, who currently sit at 6-3 and in second place in the AFC North, have to be pleased with the results from Jackson and Henry so far. They will need to lean heavily on those two when the real push for the playoffs begins.