By all accounts, the Patriots' 2025 Draft was viewed favorably by most analysts. The draft was highly focused on the offensive side of the ball, with good reason; the Patriots rank 31st in total yards and 30th in total points. The Patriots added protection from Will Campbell and Jared Wilson and weapons for Drake Maye in TreVeyon Henderson and Kyle Williams.
As OTAs begin, fans get a chance to hear if the NFL Draft grades were remotely accurate, and it seems like one of the Patriots' selections is doing his best to make a good first impression. The Patriots had a choice at the beginning of Round 2 on where to add to the offense, and they chose a running back who fits the modern NFL with his speed, hands, and agility.
Multiple reporters noted on Tuesday that RB TreVeyon Henderson's speed stood out. Doug Kyed of the Boston Herald tweeted in his notes on Tuesday, that "Henderson's speed is evident". This was later confirmed in a similar tweet by Mark Daniels of MassLive.
TreVeyon Henderson Already Dazzling in Patriots OTAs
The Patriots haven't had a receiving/speed threat out of the backfield since James White, who actually led the Patriots in receptions in 2018. White was not quite as fast as Henderson, which could spell trouble for defenses if the reports are to be believed, as Henderson appears to have real game-breaking speed.
In college, it was evident that Henderson was special. He averaged 7.1 yards per carry last season. While the defenses in the NFL are suited to contain and adapt to Henderson's speed, it bodes well that multiple reporters are taking note of Henderson's speed. Considering the talent and speed of NFL players compared to college (even high-level talent like at Ohio State), it's notable that Henderson is still standing out in the crowd.
So what does this mean? Right now, not a whole lot. OTAs are a time for teams to learn, gel as a team, and for players to familiarize themselves with the playbook. Players can have an off-practice. Even in Daniels' report yesterday, Drake Maye didn't look great, and fans shouldn't overreact to that.
Fans still should be optimistic about Henderson's performance. Athletes can be taught plays and schemes, they can put on weight, but there are two things that can't be taught: speed and height. Henderson seems to have elite speed, and that should help Drake Maye and move the Patriots offense into the top half of the league.