According to ESPN's Adam Schefter and NFL Network's Ian Rapoport, the New England Patriots have signed tight end Hunter Henry to a two-year, $16 million contract extension (worth up to $20 million). The 31-year-old was set to enter the final year of his contract, but he is now locked up through the 2028 season.
Hunter Henry will continue to be a huge part of the Patriots' success
Even though he's getting up there in age, Henry is fresh off arguably the best year of his NFL career. Last season, he recorded 60 receptions (tied for his second-most in a season), 768 yards (most by nearly 100 yards), and seven touchdowns (third-most).
Plus, he's been a fantastic security blanket for Drake Maye (and Mac Jones, back in the day) and has played a big role in his development. And especially in Josh McDaniels' system, it's crucial to have at least one reliable pass-catching tight end, which Henry absolutely is.
The Arkansas native isn't going to be a long-term contributor, but the Patriots don't need him to be. They are ready to compete for a Super Bowl next season and likely for the next few years at least after that, and having someone like Henry around should only help their odds.
What will be really exciting about Henry's outlook for next season is how he can flourish with the addition of A.J. Brown, who will take the top off the defense and stretch the field. One reason Henry was so good last season was because of the presence of Stefon Diggs, who demanded a lot of the attention from opposing defenses. Having someone like Brown, who is a better deep threat and has way more gravity, should make Henry's life way easier.
This likely means Hunter Henry will end his career in New England
And that's a great thing.
Don't look now, but Henry is quietly climbing New England's all-time receiving rankings (among all Patriots tight ends, he ranks third in receptions - 259, fourth in receiving yards - 2,973, and fourth in touchdowns - 26). He may even end his career as the second-best Patriots tight end behind Rob Gronkowski when it's all said and done (yes, even above Ben Coates and Russ Francis).
And if he can help the Patriots win their first non-Tom Brady Super Bowl, that would only elevate his legacy with the franchise. So the fact that he is likely going to end his career with the team should be good news for Patriots fans.
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