The New England Patriots would prefer to have all hands on deck when they go to battle against the Los Angeles Chargers on Wild Card Weekend. Even though the Patriots are entering the postseason clash as the higher seed, the Chargers shouldn't be underestimated, highlighting why head coach Matt Vrabel needs his roster to be as healthy as possible.
That's why the latest news that came out of Friday's practice is concerning. According to Patriots reporter Evan Lazar, star rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson was one of the few players who didn't practice on Friday. Although the reason behind his absence isn't confirmed at the time of writing, Lazar speculates that it could be related to "an illness going around the locker room."
- Update (Jan. 9, 1:52 p.m. ET): ESPN's Mike Reiss is reporting that Henderson's absence stems from "personal reasons."
TreVeyon Henderson's Practice Absence Sparks New Patriots Concern
Henderson hasn't been ruled out of Sunday night's contest yet, but it's clear that his uncertain availability isn't something the Patriots want to deal with. The latest issue comes a few weeks after the first-year RB dealt with concussion concerns to close out December.
Drafted 38th overall last April, Henderson had to prove himself before the Patriots gave him the reins as the RB1. Once given the opportunity, the former Ohio State Buckeye didn't look back, turning 180 carries into 911 rushing yards and 35 receptions into 221 receiving yards, scoring 10 touchdowns along the way. Not only was Henderson's speed on constant display, but he also showed remarkable ball security, fumbling just once on 215 touches.
Hopefully, Henderson's issue isn't serious and that he can find a way to get on the field this weekend. The Chargers have defended the run for the most part this season, but they have shown vulnerability in the trenches lately, allowing an average of 117 rushing yards in their last two games. They're also allowing 4.3 yards per carry (18th), further showing how Henderson can hurt them if the opportunities are there.
If, for whatever reason, Henderson can't play, Rhamondre Stevenson will be thrust back into the RB1 role. Although the veteran runner was a source of frustration early in the year, he's since bolstered his stock in recent weeks, rushing 29 times for 279 yards (9.6 per carry) and four TDs in his last four games, which includes an impressive 7-131-2 stat line against the Miami Dolphins in Week 18. As impressive as Stevenson's performance was, the Pats would prefer to have both of their top RBs available.
With Antonio Gibson, Terrell Jennings, Craig Reynolds, and Lan Larison all on the injured reserve, D'Ernest Johnson is the only other RB on New England's 53-man roster. Ex-Kansas City Chiefs runner Elijah Mitchell has been on the practice squad since Dec. 23, but it's hard to imagine him being put into a key role due to his lack of familiarity with the offense, even if he's activated.
The Patriots are a much better team when Henderson is leading the backfield, proving how crucial a full (and quick) recovery is. Hopefully, the next update on his status is positive, as New England needs him to have its best shot at beating Los Angeles and advancing on Sunday night.