This offseason, the Tennessee Titans parted ways with starting RB DeMarco Murray, opening the door for former Alabama star Derrick Henry to move into the starting role.

Henry showed flashes of brilliance last year, but the former Heisman Trophy winner hasn’t had to carry a full load in the NFL just yet.

However, Murray thinks Henry can thrive during the 2018 season. During an appearance on “The Adam Schefter Podcast,” Murray said Henry is ready to step up and be the guy for the Titans:

“I think Derrick’s a smart guy,” Murray said. “He’s a fast guy, very physical, athletic. Now that I’m not there, I think he can hone in on being the guy, and if they use him the right way and if he can consistently be the every-down back, I think he has a great future, a bright future.

“The Titans are a great team, great organization, and (QB) Marcus (Mariota) is going into this fourth year. So, with him having played three years — and I know obviously it’s a new offense, but going through the offseason I think they’re going to simplify things for him a little bit and let him be the quarterback, let him kind of take charge. So I think Derrick will be great. I think he’ll continue to run the ball well and protect the quarterback. I think they’ll be fine.”

In 2017, Henry carried the ball 176 times for 744 yards and five touchdowns. He also added a touchdown as a receiver.

He’ll be counted on to do even more in 2018, but Murray is confident his former protege can handle the extra work.