New England Patriots - NESN.com
It looks like the New England Patriots may have a star on their hands in rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson. Two strong preseason performances have turned heads, and it has led to a very bold take from NFL analyst Colin Cowherd.
The Patriots surprised folks when they selected Henderson with the No. 38 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, but he has turned his critics into believers with his strong play at training camp and in New England’s first two preseason contests.
In their preseason opener against the Washington Commanders, Henderson opened the game with a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown, while also picking up 18 yards on his lone rushing attempt and catching three passes for 18 yards.
Henderson didn’t do as much against the Minnesota Vikings, but he still turned his four carries into 20 yards and another touchdown. Simply put, Henderson has dominated so far for New England, with Cowherd going as far as to declare him the steal of the 2025 draft.
“There were very few players in the draft that jumped off the television when you watched them,” Cowherd said on “The Herd.” “Henderson was one of them, and I think they have got themselves the steal of the draft, a home run. I would not be shocked if he’s a top five or six running back in the league.”
It’s important not to put too much stock into preseason games, but it’s tough to ignore what Henderson has managed to do in his limited time on the field. If he can continue to rip off big plays on a consistent basis, the Patriots’ offense is going to be very dangerous.
Henderson is expected to share the backfield with Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson, but when push comes to shove, they will likely ride the hot hand. So far, Henderson has had the hot hand, and he could force the coaching staff to give him a bigger role than initially expected by the time Week 1 rolls around.
