Patriots' Henderson Doubtful for Seahawks Opener After Ankle Setback

Key points

• TreVeyon Henderson, the 2025 second-round pick, has not practiced since slipping on turf on August 24, resulting in a persistent ankle injury.
• The official Monday injury report lists Henderson as 'Did Not Participate,' while Ben Brown is marked 'Out' and Christian Barmore returns to full participation.
• Rhamondre Stevenson is positioned to take over the lead running back role if Henderson is unavailable, with Corey Kiner as the only other active tailback.
• Practice squad running backs Hassan Haskins and Lan Larison are identified as potential elevation candidates should Henderson remain sidelined.
• The Patriots face the Seattle Seahawks in a Week 1 rematch of Super Bowl LX, with the game scheduled for Wednesday at 8:20 p.m. ET.

Background

Henderson was flagged in pre-season fantasy analyses as a potential risk due to injury history and backfield committee concerns. Earlier reports from September 6 confirmed his absence from Saturday practice, highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his status ahead of the season opener. The team's depth chart has been a point of discussion, with Stevenson expected to carry the load if Henderson cannot play.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Sports emphasizes the immediate impact on the Patriots' running back depth, noting that Henderson's absence forces Rhamondre Stevenson to handle increased workload. Pats Pulpit provides a broader context, highlighting the potential elevation of practice squad players Haskins and Larison, and notes that Henderson's injury stems from a slip on August 24. The official Patriots injury report confirms the 'Did Not Participate' status for Henderson and 'Out' status for Ben Brown, while noting Barmore's return to full participation. All sources agree on the severity of Henderson's absence but differ in their focus on the depth chart implications.

Why it matters

Henderson's availability is critical for the Patriots' offensive strategy in a high-stakes Week 1 game against the Seahawks, a team they faced in the Super Bowl. His absence could shift the running game to Stevenson, potentially altering the team's play-calling and offensive balance. The injury also raises questions about the Patriots' depth and the readiness of practice squad players to step up if needed.

What to watch

The Patriots will issue another injury report on Tuesday, which will include official designations for injured players as 'questionable,' 'doubtful,' or 'out.' The team will also finalize its game plan for the Seahawks, potentially adjusting the running back rotation based on Henderson's status. Practice squad players Haskins and Larison may be elevated if Henderson remains unavailable.