Emmitt Smith Believes Derrick Henry Could Break His Rushing Record

Dallas Cowboys legend Emmitt Smith, the NFL's all-time leading rusher, believes current Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry has the potential to break his long-standing record. Smith, who retired with 18,355 rushing yards, acknowledged Henry as a serious contender.

Henry began the 2026 season with a strong performance, rushing for 144 yards and three touchdowns against the Indianapolis Colts. This brought his career total to 13,162 yards, placing him 10th on the NFL's all-time list. He currently trails Smith by 5,193 yards.

Despite being 32 years old, Henry has shown remarkable durability and effectiveness. Smith noted Henry's physique and dedication to his body as key factors. "Derrick Henry is a bigger back. He takes great care of his body. He's in great shape," Smith told DraftKings. "Oh yeah, I think it's possible."

Smith recalled that Henry once broke his Florida high school rushing record, seeing it as a precursor to a potential NFL milestone. "Derrick Henry broke my state high school record," Smith said. "So I believe he could do it again."

Henry himself has expressed a cautious optimism about the possibility of reaching Smith's record. When asked by ESPN last year, he responded, "I don't know. But, Lord willing, hopefully. So, we'll see."

In addition to his rushing prowess, Henry's three touchdowns in Week 1 moved him past Marcus Allen on the all-time list for rushing touchdowns. He now has 125 career touchdowns, trailing only LaDainian Tomlinson and Smith, who has 164.

Henry has previously spoken with reverence about playing in the same company as running back legends like Smith. "I'm in awe," Henry said after the Week 1 game. "Knowing some of my heroes, L.T. was my favorite running back growing up, Emmett is a legend, NFL legend, Florida legend, just a legend all around. So, for me to be in the same conversation with those guys, just you know, it seems so surreal."

Smith was 33 when he surpassed Walter Payton to become the league's leading rusher. He continued playing until he was 35, retiring with his record intact. The prospect of Henry, a player he recognizes as a formidable talent with a history of breaking his records, now chasing this ultimate milestone is something Smith is watching closely.