Particle.news

Henderson Ankle Question Puts Patriots' Week 1 Running Back Plan at Risk

That uncertainty forces New England to consider practice‑squad elevations with Rhamondre Stevenson expected to take a larger workload.

Overview

  • TreVeyon Henderson injured his right ankle on Aug. 24 when he slipped at a Patriots practice and has not practiced since, leaving his availability for the Sept. 9 opener in doubt.
  • New England listed Henderson as a non‑participant on its first Week 1 injury report released Sunday, marking his fourth straight missed practice and narrowing the team’s window to get him game‑ready.
  • The Patriots currently have thin on‑roster depth at running back with Corey Kiner as the only other RB on the 53‑man roster, a player New England acquired in a late‑August trade.
  • If Henderson is limited or inactive the team will likely elevate one or two practice‑squad backs—Lan Larison and Hassan Haskins are primary candidates—while Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to absorb a much larger role.
  • Henderson’s potential absence removes New England’s top explosive playmaker, which could change play‑calling, increase the value of pass protection and special‑teams contributions, and put a new spotlight on Kiner or any elevated back.