The New England Patriots' running game has been less than impressive all season, ranking 31st in the league in yards per carry with 3.5. The already anemic rushing attack took a hit when Antonio Gibson suffered a torn ACL that will keep him out for the rest of the season. With only TreVeyon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson healthy in the RB room, the Patriots need both playmakers to take a step forward. A relatively easy schedule in the next three weeks, going up against the Titans, Browns, and Falcons with two of them at home, Henderson is facing an especially important stretch ahead of the November 4 trade deadline.
The Patriots' rookie is having an up-and-down season through six weeks. While he has had his moments, especially in the passing game, he hasn't necessarily gained the full confidence of the coaching staff. Despite Gibson's injury, Henderson had a surprisingly low offensive snap count last week with 19 and touched the ball ten times. He wasn't particularly effective, going for three yards per carry in nine attempts, and nine yards in his only catch. To make matters even more complicated for him, he was removed from kick return duties in favor of Efton Chism and Terrell Jennings.
TreVeyon Henderson Is Running Out of Time to Make an Impact
While special teams coordinator Jeremy Springer said that this was due to the team's desire to protect Henderson and not let him get hurt when there are only two RBs available, it takes away from the rookie's opportunities to shine. He averaged 22 yards per return in his seen tries this season, and it seems like he will not get another opportunity anytime soon to showcase what he can do.
That puts even more pressure on him to perform. He is averaging 3.6 yards per carry in his 41 rushing attempts so far, with only one touchdown. He has yet to have more than 11 carries in a game. The Patriots have an egalitarian offensive approach where Drake Maye spreads the ball, but they have to establish a better rushing attack. Henderson has to be a big part of this, especially with Stevenson struggling with ball protection.
Week 7 against the Titans is a great opportunity for the second-round pick to have a breakout game. If he can't, the Patriots will have to reconsider their approach at the trade deadline.
During the week, The Athletic's Dianna Russini reported that the Patriots haven't been on the market for a RB trade so far. If Henderson doesn't start to make an impact soon, however, that could and should change. All eyes will be on the 22-year-old rusher on Sunday.