Derrick Henry’s impressive career rushing total of 12,127 yards puts him among an elite group of just 17 players in NFL history to break the 12,000-yard milestone. However, fans who have tracked his journey since high school may wonder why it took so long to achieve this feat.
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In his ten-year NFL career, the Baltimore Ravens running back has finally surpassed the total he amassed during his four years at Yulee High School in Florida, where he dominated rival teams and set the all-time record for career rushing yards with 12,124.
Henry achieved this milestone by racking up 75 rushing yards in the Ravens’ 27-19 victory over the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday.
“It took longer, but those two levels are a little different,” chuckled Henry’s high school coach, Bobby Ramsay. “That rushing record in high school had stood for 59 years, so even coming close to it in the NFL is remarkable. Breaking it is just insane.”
During his senior year, Henry’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary, with a staggering 4,261 rushing yards on 462 carries. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 252 pounds, he averaged an eye-watering 327.8 rushing yards per game, scoring 55 rushing touchdowns along the way.
This remarkable talent produced numerous unforgettable moments throughout his high school career.
We asked Ramsay, who now coaches at Jackson High School in Florida, to highlight Henry’s top five standout moments from his legendary prep career.
No. 5. Freshman year dominance (2009)
Yulee had always struggled against rivals Fernandina Beach High School, but Henry showcased his incredible talent by rushing for 275 yards, leading the Hornets to a 26-22 victory. Henry had 43 carries during the game and even contributed to the playcalling on the final drive.
Ramsay remarked: “That was a game where I really got to see his high IQ because he remembered that different plays worked better, and he voiced that to the staff. That always stuck with me just because of his age. He just took over that game and carried us.”
No. 4. Sophomore stardom begins (2010)
While there was some excitement surrounding Henry, he wasn’t yet a familiar name in recruiting circles. That changed dramatically when the Hornets faced Atlantic Coast High School (Florida). On that night, a local newspaper was set to feature Henry, who rushed for 301 yards on 17 carries in a 31-7 win, turning him into a national sensation.
Ramsay noted: “That story really blew up, but it was all because he dominated once again. He had one run where he took off one way, got stopped, then plants and cuts back up the middle and takes it for a 70-yard run. It was just amazing.”
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No. 3. Second-half response (2010)
The Hornets were fighting for a playoff spot against a team they were favored to beat, but they found themselves down 21-3 at halftime. Ramsay challenged Henry during the intermission, and the motivational tactic paid off handsomely. Henry not only produced 267 rushing yards but also blocked a punt, sacked the quarterback, and made critical plays throughout the game, resulting in a thrilling 38-34 victory.
Ramsay commented: “He literally did everything for us to win that game. He just refused to let us lose.”
No. 2. Senior season opener (2012)
The 4A Hornets opened their season against the formidable 6A Gainesville High School, a team brimming with Division I talent. Despite the loss, Henry made a statement with 327 rushing yards and four touchdowns.
Ramsay shared: “Before the game, the Gainesville kids were talking a lot of trash, but afterward, they were coming up to him wanting pictures. A bunch of Alabama football fans showed up at that game, and they ended up showing up wherever we were. It was crazy just getting him on the bus because everyone wanted a picture with him.”
No. 1. Record-breaking night (2012)
The Hornets were vying for a playoff victory, but it was clearly predetermined that Henry would surpass Ken Hall’s long-standing national rushing record. Henry achieved this feat swiftly, scoring on a 65-yard touchdown run, prompting a halt in the game to celebrate his accomplishment with fireworks. He concluded the night with 480 rushing yards in a 42-25 win.
Ramsay expressed: “It was a special night, but we were also trying to win a playoff game, so he was very much focused on winning. It was perfect because he got it done early, allowing us to concentrate on the game. It’s still surreal that he broke that record.”
