Patriots News
RB TreVeyon Henderson Poised for Expanded Role in Week 10
New England Patriots rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson played a career-high 75 percent of offensive snaps in Week 9 against the Atlanta Falcons and appears positioned to lead the backfield again in Week 10 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Henderson’s increased role came with veteran Rhamondre Stevenson sidelined due to a toe injury. The Ohio State product carried the ball 14 times for 55 yards and added four receptions for 32 receiving yards in the Patriots’ Week 9 contest. His snap share represented both a season high and career high since entering the league as a rookie in 2025.
While Henderson dominated the backfield touches, he was not the sole ball carrier. Running back Terrell Jennings received 11 carries and one reception, giving the Patriots a committee approach despite Stevenson’s absence. Henderson still commanded the majority of opportunities and handled most passing-down work.
Stevenson did not practice on Wednesday as the Patriots began preparations for Tampa Bay. Henderson took first-team reps in Stevenson’s place during the practice session. The Patriots have not provided a timetable for Stevenson’s return or specified the severity of his toe injury.
For Stevenson to have a realistic chance of playing Sunday, he would likely need to participate in at least a limited capacity during Thursday or Friday practices. Teams typically require some practice participation from skill position players before clearing them for game action, particularly with lower-body injuries that affect cutting and acceleration.
Even if Stevenson returns to health, his starting role is not guaranteed. The veteran has struggled with efficiency and ball security in 2025. He is averaging just 3.4 yards per carry and has lost three fumbles through the first nine weeks of the season. Those numbers represent significant concerns for a team that values ball security and consistent rushing production.
Can Fantasy Owners Trust He’ll Get a Full Workload?
Henderson’s performance in Week 9, while not spectacular, was competent enough to suggest he can handle a larger workload. His ability to contribute in the passing game gives the Patriots flexibility in game planning. The four receptions matched his previous season high and demonstrated his three-down capability.
The Patriots face the Buccaneers on Sunday in Week 10. Tampa Bay’s run defense has been middle-of-the-pack this season, presenting neither a particularly favorable nor difficult matchup. The game script could favor the running game if New England builds an early lead, though that depends on how both offenses perform.
Henderson’s path to backfield dominance remains uncertain even with Stevenson’s injury. Jennings carved out a meaningful role in Week 9 despite being lower on the depth chart. The Patriots have historically employed committee approaches at running back under head coach Bill Belichick’s successor. Multiple backs sharing touches has been a common theme in New England’s offensive philosophy.
The rookie’s fantasy value has increased significantly following Week 9. Henderson currently ranks as a low-end RB2 option in redraft leagues. His floor appears solid given his snap share and involvement in the passing game. However, his ceiling remains capped by competition for touches and New England’s overall offensive approach.
Fantasy managers rostering Henderson should monitor Stevenson’s practice participation throughout the week. If Stevenson remains sidelined, Henderson becomes a confident RB2 play with potential for more. Even if Stevenson returns, Henderson could maintain flex appeal depending on how the Patriots split touches.
Jennings represents a potential handcuff option but carries minimal standalone value unless both Henderson and Stevenson miss time. His 11 carries in Week 9 suggest the Patriots trust him in short-yardage situations, but he lacks the receiving skills to command three-down work.
The Patriots have three practices remaining before finalizing their Week 10 gameday roster. Wednesday’s injury report will be released later in the afternoon, providing official designations for Stevenson and other injured players. Thursday and Friday reports will clarify the backfield hierarchy heading into Sunday.
Henderson’s ascension comes during a crucial stretch of the season for New England. The Patriots enter Week 10 with a 7-2 record and playoff positioning at stake. Establishing a consistent ground game will be important for maintaining their success down the stretch.
