Derrick Henry, a professional NFL player, was born to his loving parents, Derrick Henry Sr., a former football player at Alabama State, and Stacy Veal, a former high school track athlete. Both of them have strong athletic backgrounds.
Henry began his football journey as a standout at Yulee High School, where he amassed 12,124 career rushing yards, breaking Ken Hall’s long-standing record.
He transitioned to college football at the University of Alabama, where his junior season in 2015 solidified his status as one of the greatest running backs in NCAA history.
That year, he won the Heisman Trophy, broke SEC single-season rushing records, and helped lead the Crimson Tide to a National Championship.
Henry was selected by the Tennessee Titans in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft, starting his professional career as a backup.
By 2018, he emerged as the Titans’ lead back, highlighted by a historic 99-yard touchdown run and his first 1,000-yard rushing season.
In 2019, he captured the NFL rushing title, leading the league in rushing yards and touchdowns. He repeated this feat in 2020, joining the elite 2,000-yard rushing club and earning NFL Offensive Player of the Year honors.
Injuries in 2021 sidelined Henry for much of the season, but he returned in 2022 to reclaim his dominance, rushing for over 1,500 yards and earning another Pro Bowl selection.
After eight stellar seasons with the Titans, Henry signed with the Baltimore Ravens in 2024, continuing his legacy with record-breaking performances, including surpassing 10,000 career rushing yards and achieving his 100th career touchdown.
Derrick Henry’s career reflects a unique combination of strength, endurance, and skill, establishing him as one of the most impactful running backs of his generation.
Behind Derrick Henry’s NFL Stardom Lies the Strength of Family Bonds
The foundation of Derrick Henry’s success on the field lies in the support and guidance of his parents, Derrick Henry Sr. and Stacy Veal.
Born on January 4, 1994, in Yulee, Florida, Derrick Henry was the child of teenage parents – his mother was just 15, and his father was 16 at the time.
The challenges of their young age shaped much of Derrick’s early life, creating both struggles and opportunities for growth.
Due to their youth and the difficulties of early parenthood, Derrick was primarily raised by his grandmother, Gladys Henry, who became a central figure in his upbringing.
In his family, Derrick also has a younger sister, Celine Amor Henry, with whom he shares a close bond.
Following his parent’s divorce, his mother remarried Derrick’s step-father, Latrell.
Stacy Veal (Mother), Latrell (step-Dad), Derrick ,Sr (Dad) of Derrick Henry @KingHenry_2 @WalterCampFF @BamaMag pic.twitter.com/5vJwruqDQr
— A.P. Steadham (@APSteadham) January 15, 2016
His father, Derrick Henry Sr., affectionately known as “Big D,” faced significant challenges, particularly with the law.
Over the years, he was arrested approximately 20 times on various charges, including drug-related offenses and other violations.
These legal issues led to periods of incarceration, which meant Henry Sr. was absent during much of Derrick’s childhood.
Despite this, Henry Sr. consistently encouraged his son to stay away from negative influences and focus on achieving his goals.
Even from afar, his advice resonated with Derrick and helped him make better life decisions.
On the other hand, Stacy Veal, a hemodialysis technician by profession, played a pivotal and consistent role in Derrick’s life.
As a young mother, she faced her struggles but remained determined to provide her son with emotional support and encouragement.
Her strength and dedication were instrumental during Derrick’s formative years.
A notable instance of her influence occurred during Derrick’s freshman year at the University of Alabama.
When he considered transferring due to limited playing time, Stacy intervened by contacting Coach Nick Saban.
Her persistence convinced Derrick to stay, a decision that ultimately proved transformative for his career.
In addition to his parents, Derrick’s grandmother, Gladys Henry, was a profound influence in his life.
She instilled values of faith, hard work, and perseverance, which have become the pillars of Derrick’s success.
Nicknamed “Shocka” due to the surprise of his birth, she left a lasting legacy on her grandson.
Derrick often speaks of her impact, crediting her for much of his personal development. In honor of her influence, he fulfilled a promise to her by graduating from Alabama in 2018 with a Bachelor’s degree in Communications.
Derrick wrote a heartfelt letter to his grandmother upon returning to Alabama to receive his diploma. In it, he expressed:
I guess I just want you to know that I love you and I miss you, and I’m doing all the right things. I’m keeping God first, like you always told me to. I’m working hard every day. I’m being respectful to my elders. I’m doing my lessons, Grandma — I promise I am. And when I walk across that stage in Tuscaloosa today and get my degree, I know I won’t be walking alone. You’ll be right there with me, the same way you are every day, inside my heart. I can feel your spirit. I can hear you singing.
Via Heavy
To further honor her, Derrick has her name tattooed on his chest. Her wisdom and faith continue to guide him, even after her passing on September 13, 2016.
Despite her declining health, Gladys watched Derrick win the Heisman Trophy in 2015 from her hospital bed, a moment that remains deeply cherished by Derrick.
In recent years, Derrick has worked to rebuild and maintain relationships with both of his parents.
His father, acknowledging past mistakes, has become an active supporter of Derrick’s career, attending games and encouraging him.
Henry Sr., now free from his legal troubles, even runs a barbecue grill business and prioritizes being present for his son’s games. Of his father, Derrick once said:
He’s still supporting me to this day. He still tries to make every game even though he can’t. But growing up he always was at my game, any game I played.
Via Heavy
Similarly, Derrick’s bond with his mother remains strong. Stacy often attends his games, celebrating his achievements and remaining a constant source of encouragement.
The collective support of his family, including his parents and grandmother, has been a cornerstone of Derrick’s journey.
Their experiences and guidance have profoundly influenced his character and career, shaping him into one of the most remarkable athletes of his generation.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- Derrick earned the nickname “King Henry” during high school for his dominance on the field.
- He was a five-star recruit in high school and ranked as the No. 1 athlete in the nation in 2013 by ESPN.
- He has been in a relationship with Adrianna Rivas since 2016, and they have two daughters together.
