Patriots Rookie RB TreVeyon Henderson Aims to Build on Breakout Performance
TreVeyon Henderson, a rookie running back for the New England Patriots, is making significant strides in his performance. His recent development in pass protection has earned him trust from coaches, allowing him to participate in crucial game situations. This comes at an opportune time as the Patriots face challenges in their running back lineup.
Henderson’s Development in Pass Protection
In recent games, Henderson demonstrated his improved skills in pass protection. He effectively recognized a safety blitz during a play-action pass, enabling quarterback Drake Maye enough time to look for open receivers. Over the past two weeks, Henderson has not allowed a single pressure during three pass-blocking snaps. This marks a notable improvement, especially considering he was once regarded as one of the best pass-blocking prospects coming out of college.
Adjustments and Confidence
Henderson has shared insights about adjusting to the dynamic nature of NFL defenses. “These guys aren’t just a bunch of bull rushers,” he explained. “They come with a lot of different moves and tools.” His ability to learn and adapt quickly has been crucial to his role in the team.
Patriots in Injury Crisis
The timing of Henderson’s progress is critical for the Patriots. Veteran running back Antonio Gibson is sidelined for the season due to a knee injury, and top back Rhamondre Stevenson was held out of practice this week with a toe injury. This situation positions Henderson as the likely lead back for their upcoming home game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Coaching Insights
Running backs coach Ivan Dews spoke about Henderson’s growth. “The natural progression is guys continue to grow, and they get used to seeing different looks,” Dews noted. This consistent improvement is essential for Henderson, especially as the team navigates injury challenges.
Roster Changes and Future Prospects
- The Patriots signed running back Terrell Jennings to the 53-man roster.
- Veteran D’Ernest Johnson joined the practice squad after being released by the Cardinals.
- Johnson has had notable performances, including two career games over 100 rushing yards.
As the Patriots approach the trade deadline on November 4, they are exploring options in the running back market. However, it is unlikely that any moves will significantly impact Henderson’s projected role. The team views the 23-year-old as a key element of their offensive strategy moving forward.
Conclusion
With his game-breaking speed and newfound confidence in pass protection, TreVeyon Henderson is poised to become a vital part of the Patriots’ offense. As he continues to build on his recent performances, his contributions will be crucial for the team in the coming weeks.
