New England Patriots star rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson entered concussion protocol after exiting the game early with a head injury last week against the Baltimore Ravens. However, the rookie logged the first practice of the week while in a non-contact jersey, reported by ESPN's Mike Reiss.
As depth to the running back position has been a problem for the Patriots this season, they recently signed veteran Elijah Mitchell to the practice squad amid the uncertainty of Henderson being in the concussion protocol. However, if Henderson is able to return to the field for game action, it would likely hinder Mitchell’s chances of being called up from the practice squad for Week 17.
Patriots Continue To Manage Running Back Depth Ahead Of Playoffs
With Mitchell being signed to the practice squad for just a few days, it’s fair to assume he won’t have a firm grasp of the playbook for this week against the New York Jets. That said, it doesn’t mean he can’t or won’t be called up, it means his workload would be limited.
Although it’s a positive sign for Henderson to be at practice, it might be wise for him to be managed as the playoffs are right around the corner. This will allow him to be fresh and rested heading into what should be a deep playoff run.
As it currently stands, the Patriots are running thin at the position with Rhamondre Stevenson and D’Ernest Johnson as the only available options on the roster, with Henderson and Terrell Jennings on the injured list.
If Henderson is unable to clear protocol or is made a healthy scratch, Mitchell’s play style fits into what offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’ system is designed to do. Having him on the field would also present some unpredictability in ways that neither Stevenson nor Johnson can, as he’s more of a dual-threat out of the backfield.
Through the first three seasons of his career with the San Francisco 49ers, Mitchell rushed for 1,523 yards with nine touchdowns and had 28 receptions for 158 yards and one touchdown. What I found to be impressive was his 87.5 catch percentage in his time with the 49ers.
It’s worth mentioning that even if Henderson clears the concussion protocol, the need for depth at the running back position is still an urgent matter with the playoffs just a couple of weeks away. Jennings still has another two weeks before he’s eligible to come off IR and then begin the 21-day window for his return.
That said, Mitchell could prove to earn a much-needed depth role on the Patriots, who need to solidify the position heading into the playoffs.