In the fiercely competitive NFL, the title of Offensive Player of the Year (OPOTY) is one of the most coveted individual honors, recognizing the league’s most dominant offensive force. As we approach the final stretch of the 2024 season, two players have emerged as the front-runners for the prestigious award: Saquon Barkley, the dynamic running back for the New York Giants, and Derrick Henry, the powerhouse tailback of the Tennessee Titans. Each has had a season that showcases their unique abilities, and fans and analysts alike are divided over who truly deserves to walk away with the trophy.
Since entering the league as the second overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, Saquon Barkley has been hailed as one of the most explosive players in the league. His combination of speed, power, and vision has made him a nightmare for defenses, and 2024 has been no different. What makes Barkley a particularly compelling candidate for Offensive Player of the Year is his versatility. Unlike many running backs who rely solely on their rushing abilities, Barkley has transformed into a dual-threat weapon, capable of breaking open games both as a rusher and as a receiver.
Through 12 games this season, Barkley has accumulated over 1,500 yards from scrimmage, a staggering total for any player, let alone a running back. His 1,200 rushing yards are complemented by 300 receiving yards, showcasing his ability to stretch the field in both the ground and aerial games. With 15 total touchdowns—nearly half of his team’s offensive production—Barkley has single-handedly kept the Giants in playoff contention, even when their passing game has faltered.
One of Barkley’s most impressive attributes is his ability to break tackles. According to NFL Next Gen Stats, he leads all running backs in broken tackles and has been involved in numerous game-changing plays this season. Whether it’s hurdling over defenders or outmuscling linebackers, Barkley continues to prove that he is one of the hardest players to bring down in the league. His explosive playmaking ability has led the Giants’ offense and created big moments that could tip the scales in his favor for the OPOTY award.
Barkley’s ability to handle a large workload—rushing 25-30 times a game while also contributing in the passing game—is a testament to his physical and mental toughness. In a season where many stars have struggled with injuries, Barkley has remained remarkably durable, proving that his value to the Giants is immeasurable.
On the other side of the debate stands Derrick Henry, a player whose sheer size, strength, and relentlessness have earned him the nickname “King Henry.” The Tennessee Titans’ 6’3″, 250-pound running back is one of the most feared athletes in football, capable of physically wearing down defenses with his bruising running style. Over the years, Henry has redefined what it means to be a running back in the modern NFL, regularly putting up historic numbers that make defenders quiver.
In 2024, Henry has once again been a workhorse for the Titans, totaling over 1,400 rushing yards through 12 games. He has an incredible 15 touchdowns, many of which have come in crucial, late-game situations. Henry’s ability to dominate in the fourth quarter—when fatigue sets in and defenses begin to falter—is unmatched. His 50-yard breakaway runs have become almost routine, and his stiff-arm—a weapon as iconic as any in the league—remains a deadly asset that regularly leaves defenders in his wake.
Henry’s impact extends beyond raw stats. He wears down entire defensive lines, creating space for his teammates and controlling the tempo of the game. In a season where Tennessee has relied on a ball-control offense and a heavy running game, Henry has been the linchpin of their attack. He doesn’t just run the ball; he sets the tone for the entire Titans offense. And his ability to turn a small crease into a massive gain—often running through multiple tacklers—has cemented his place as one of the most punishing players in the league.
Where Barkley dazzles with finesse, Henry terrifies with power. While Barkley’s ability to make defenders miss in open space is what sets him apart, Henry’s ability to lower the boom on defenders, dragging them across the field, is just as intimidating. His performances in high-pressure moments, such as late-game situations or in matchups against top-ranked defenses, are often what make him stand out as one of the most dangerous players in the league.
Both Barkley and Henry have had remarkable seasons that deserve recognition, but choosing between them comes down to the nature of their performances.
Barkley’s versatility—his ability to contribute both as a rusher and as a receiver—gives him a slight edge in terms of all-around impact. He is the centerpiece of the Giants’ offense and has proven to be not only an elite runner but a playmaker in the passing game. His combination of explosiveness, durability, and versatility makes him a weapon that defenses simply can’t ignore. Barkley’s performances have been electrifying, and he is a major reason why the Giants are in the hunt for a playoff spot.
Henry, however, is arguably the most physically dominant back in the league. His ability to control the clock, wear down defenses, and come up big in clutch situations is second to none. He has carried the Titans to several key victories, and his size and power make him one of the most difficult players to stop once he gets going. Henry’s relentless style is built for the long haul, and he has once again proven that he is the backbone of Tennessee’s offense.
Ultimately, the decision between Barkley and Henry may come down to team success. Barkley’s all-around play is impressive, but Henry’s ability to consistently dominate games and lead his team through sheer force may be what tips the balance in his favor for Offensive Player of the Year.
In the end, whichever player wins the award, it’s clear that the NFL is blessed to have two players of this caliber. Whether it’s Barkley’s electrifying versatility or Henry’s bruising dominance, 2024 has showcased the best of what NFL offenses have to offer.