After making an expected addition along the offensive line Thursday night, the Patriots have targeted a backfield move in the second round. New England has drafted running back TreVeyon Henderson at No. 38.
The Ohio State product remained a key figure on offense during his four years with the program. That included a career-best 7.1 yards per carry average in 2024 as he helped the Buckeyes to a national championship. Henderson also matched his personal best with 27 receptions last year, further demonstrating his two-way skillset.
Efficiency on the ground and through the air helped endear Pats offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels to Henderson, Ian Rapoport of NFL Network notes. Strong work with respect to pass protection is always a solid path to playing time for young running backs as they enter the NFL. In this case, that should result in plenty of opportunities in New England for 2025.
The Patriots finished 31st in the league in total offense last season. While the team ranked in the top half of the NFL in terms of rushing totals, it comes as little surprise a rookie backfield addition has been made early in the draft. Henderson will now join veterans Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson at the RB spot with New England.
Stevenson was benched at times in 2024 due to fumbling issues, leaving Gibson in place as the team’s lead back. Both are on the books for multiple years, so they should remain in the fold for at least next season. However, Henderson should be able to carve out a role for himself on third downs given his strength in pass protection. It will be interesting to see if his workload expands beyond that early on.
Protecting quarterback Drake Maye was a priority on Thursday with the selection of offensive tackle Will Campbell fourth overall. That has remained a goal into Day 2 as New England looks to continue making changes on offense under head coach Mike Vrabel.
