United States women's rugby sevens standout Ilona Maher has been one of the breakout stars of the 2024 Paris Olympics, pairing her strong running style with her engaging social media content.
Her efforts warranted a shoutout from one of the NFL's most physical running backs ever, Baltimore Ravens' Derrick Henry, who was impressed by her viral stiff arms in a matches against Japan and Brazil at the Games. Maher has drawn comparisons to Henry, a two-time NFL All-Pro known for his stiff arms.
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"Get off of me!" Henry yelled in the video posted to X, which Maher reposted on her own account.
He continued:
"She got it. Mindset. Running strong and hard, not trying to go down. Get into the end zone by any means. I love it. Make me want to get out there, too."
Maher has over 3 million combined followers across her Instagram and TikTok accounts and has gone viral in recent days for spreading awareness for body positivity. She has also helped lead the United States to the semifinals of the women's rugby sevens competition after it defeated Great Britain 17-7 on Monday.
She's hoping to help lead the United States to a shot at a gold medal with a win over New Zealand on Tuesday.
Henry, the 2015 Heisman Trophy winner and two-time NFL rushing yards and touchdowns leader, is in his first season with the Ravens after signing a two-year deal worth $16 million in the offseason. The former second-round pick rushed for 1,167 yards and 12 touchdowns with the Tennessee Titans last season.
Here's the full video of Henry's reaction to Maher's viral stiff arms:
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Here's Henry's reaction to Maher's viral plays at the 2024 Paris Olympics:
Olympic Rugby Sevens Schedule - Women | Paris 2024
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY Sports: Look: Ilona Maher's viral stiff arms praised by Ravens RB Derrick Henry
