Cooper DeJean's Harrowing Tale: Tackling 'The Train' Derrick Henry

Introduction

The NFL is a league of punishing collisions, but no running back has matched the freight-train force of Derrick Henry. Standing at 6'3", weighing 247 pounds, and boasting a 4.54 40-yard dash speed, Henry has been a one-man wrecking crew for the Tennessee Titans. This past Saturday's Divisional Round playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals was no exception, as Henry carried the ball 20 times for 62 yards - including a 2-yard touchdown plunge in the fourth quarter.

One of the most memorable plays of the game, however, wasn't a Henry touchdown. It was a thunderous hit by 5'9", 185-pound Cincinnati Bengals rookie safety Cooper DeJean. Late in the third quarter, Henry lined up in the backfield, his eyes set on another bruising run. DeJean, recognizing Henry's intentions, filled the hole and launched himself into the Titans' star running back, stopping him dead in his tracks.

The impact was so violent that it sent Henry tumbling backward. DeJean celebrated with a roar, the crowd erupted, and social media lit up with fans marveling at the rookie's fearlessness. But in the aftermath of the game, many have questioned whether Dejean's hit was a clean one - and whether it crossed the line of fair play.

Was It a Clean Hit?

The NFL's rulebook defines a clean hit as one that is "delivered within the frame of the opponent's body, below the neck, and without the use of the helmet." By most accounts, DeJean's hit met all of these criteria. He lowered his shoulder, aimed for Henry's chest, and made contact with his forearms. He did not spear Henry with his helmet, nor did he lead with his head.

However, some have argued that DeJean's hit was still excessive. They point to the fact that Henry was already engaged with Bengals linebacker Logan Wilson when DeJean delivered his blow. They also note that DeJean's hit drove Henry backward several yards, which is an indication that it was delivered with significant force.

The NFL's Response

The NFL has yet to officially comment on DeJean's hit. However, league sources have indicated that they are reviewing the play and that they could potentially fine or suspend DeJean if they determine that the hit was illegal.

Cooper DeJean's Perspective

DeJean has defended his hit, saying that he was simply trying to make a play and that he did not intend to injure Henry. He also expressed frustration with the criticism that he has received, saying that he feels like he is being unfairly targeted because he is a rookie.

The Broader Implications

DeJean's hit has raised questions about the NFL's commitment to player safety. In recent years, the league has taken steps to crack down on helmet-to-helmet hits and other dangerous plays. However, some critics argue that the league is still not doing enough to protect its players from long-term injuries.

DeJean's hit is a reminder of the inherent violence of football. It is a game in which players collide with each other at full speed, and injuries are inevitable. However, it is also a game that is supposed to be played within the confines of certain rules and regulations. If the NFL wants to truly protect its players, it needs to continue to crack down on dangerous hits like the one that DeJean delivered on Derrick Henry.

Conclusion

Cooper DeJean's hit on Derrick Henry was a clean one by the letter of the NFL's rulebook. However, it was also a violent hit that could have potentially resulted in a serious injury. The NFL needs to continue to review plays like this one and take steps to ensure that players are protected from dangerous hits.