The Baltimore Ravens made a major move by signing Derrick Henry in the 2024 offseason. Pairing him with Lamar Jackson instantly created the most dangerous quarterback-running back duo in the NFL when it comes to running the ball.
However, as with any running back over 30, depth is crucial to avoid overuse and wear and tear. In Baltimore’s case, returning a familiar face could be the key to building a more balanced committee for the 2025-26 season.
Could the Ravens Bring Gus Edwards Back?
Henry’s arrival in Baltimore in 2024 was met with some skepticism due to his age. While the fit with Jackson was promising, few expected Henry to have the second-best statistical season of his career, surpassing 2,100 scrimmage yards and scoring 18 touchdowns.
Baltimore rewarded him with a new deal this offseason, making it clear they still believe in his ability to produce, even after crossing the age-30 threshold, a point at which most running backs tend to decline. To help manage that workload, bringing back Gus Edwards, who played for the Los Angeles Chargers in 2024, could be the answer.
Gus Edwards caps off a 13-play, 79-yard drive for the @Chargers first TD of the night!
📺: #LACvsKC on NBC/Peacock
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/zbOQ49WAzl
— NFL (@NFL) December 9, 2024
Jacob Infante highlighted Edwards in a PFSN article listing the best free agents still available. He noted that he could be a valuable asset for a few teams and identified the Ravens as one of the best fits for the veteran, who turned 30 earlier this year.
“At 30 years old, Edwards shouldn’t be expected to serve as anyone’s bell cow back at this stage. However, the 238-pound bruiser is still a capable short-yardage back. The Las Vegas Raiders and Washington Commanders stand out as teams who need RB depth, and a reunion with the Baltimore Ravens as a backup could make sense, too.”
Edwards didn’t succeed in Los Angeles last season, only playing in 11 games and starting six, totaling just 371 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns. But in 2023 with the Ravens, he posted career highs with 990 scrimmage yards and 13 scores.
His physical, between-the-tackles running style could be what the Ravens need to maintain their identity when Henry takes a breather. The team already has Justice Hill as a shiftier, more elusive option, but Edwards has shown flashes of athleticism with the ball in his hands, as he did in 2023.
Lamar finds Gus Edwards for a big gain!
📺: #BALvsSF on ABC
📱: Stream on #NFLPlus https://t.co/pkwa8SXokx pic.twitter.com/oZt8Jwtm65
— NFL (@NFL) December 26, 2023
Injuries have derailed much of Edwards’ career, including a lost 2021 season, but at this stage, fit matters more than volume. And Baltimore remains the place where his game has thrived the most.
If he were to return to the team, Edwards could easily slide in as the RB2 on the depth chart, right behind Henry in the rotation.
