Emmitt Smith Says Derrick Henry 'In Great Shape' to Potentially Break His NFL Rushing Record

Derrick Henry seemingly isn't slowing down with age, and legendary running back Emmitt Smith thinks the Baltimore Ravens star has the chance to break his NFL rushing yards record.

"Oh yeah, I think it's possible," Smith told DraftKings (h/t ESPN's Jamison Hensley ). "Derrick Henry is a bigger back. He takes great care of his body. He's in great shape."

Smith currently holds the NFL's record for career rushing yards with 18,355, while Henry is sitting in 10th place at 13,162. Henry still has a long way to go, but if he continues his current pace over the next few years, it's in the realm of possibility that he finishes atop the list.

Henry is 32 years old, but has played more like a running back 10 years younger than him over the last few years. He recorded 1,595 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns last year and started off the 2026 campaign strong with 144 rushing yards and three scores against the Indianapolis Colts.

Even if Henry doesn't break Smith's 24-year-old record, he'll be remembered as one of the greatest running backs of all time who defied what was thought possible of an aging running back.