NBA sensation Anthony Edwards might want to rethink his latest challenge after claiming he could take down Baltimore Ravens running back Derrick Henry.
The NFL powerhouse, known for steamrolling defenders throughout his career, had some thoughts about that.
The proposal emerged when Edwards told Minnesota Vikings wide receiver Justin Jefferson he could deliver a hit on the bruising back.
At 6-foot-4 and 225 pounds, Edwards certainly has the frame, but Henry is 6-foot-3, 247 pounds and has a reputation for destroying tacklers.
Henry’s response to Edwards’ bold claim was a mix of amusement and skepticism.
“Everybody’s got an imagination,” he said, via Jonas Shaffer of The Baltimore Banner.
Derrick Henry jokes about Anthony Edwards thinking he can tackle him: “Everybody’s got an imagination.” pic.twitter.com/VPqa7wtAzz
— Jonas Shaffer (@jonas_shaffer) October 23, 2024
But rather than dismiss the idea entirely, Henry pitched an interesting counterproposal: a training camp where basketball players could test their mettle in full football gear.
“How about we set up a training camp where basketball players put on pads and see if they can really get through it?” Henry said.
Looking at the potential matchup, Henry couldn’t help but analyze the logistics.
“He’s a tall guy. He’s gonna have to tackle me low. We should definitely try that out one day,” Henry said with a laugh.
The challenge was clear, even if the overlapping seasons make any immediate showdown unlikely.
Henry’s skepticism isn’t without merit. Over his nine NFL seasons, few defenders have successfully stood their ground against his punishing running style.
The Ravens’ social media team captured Henry’s more direct response in a video on X, where he offered a straightforward “Hell no” to Edwards’ claim.
Could @theantedwards_ tackle @KingHenry_2??
The King weighs in 👑 @espn pic.twitter.com/GwWEjvVpZN
— Baltimore Ravens (@Ravens) October 23, 2024
While this theoretical clash makes for an entertaining discussion, both athletes have more pressing matters at hand.
Henry and the Ravens are focused on extending their winning streak to six games in Week 8 against the Cleveland Browns.
Edwards, meanwhile, just opened his NBA season with the Timberwolves, who like the Ravens, have title aspirations of their own.
