The New England Patriots have been busy this offseason, addressing several key areas in their roster. While they've made some strides at safety and offensive tackle, there are still gaps to fill at positions like edge, tight end, and offensive guard. However, one position where they seem to have a solid foundation is at running back, with a promising duo ready to make waves.
Leading the charge is veteran Rhamondre Stevenson, a dependable inside runner known for his power and consistency-when he holds onto the ball, that is. Complementing him is the electrifying second-year back, TreVeyon Henderson, who brings a dynamic flair to the Patriots' backfield. His ability to light up the field has not gone unnoticed.
Fantasy football enthusiasts, take note. ESPN's Eric Moody has highlighted Henderson as a top trade target for the 2026 season. After a standout rookie year, Henderson is poised to be a breakout star for the Patriots.
Last season, Henderson put up impressive numbers, rushing for 911 yards with a solid five-yard average per carry and scoring nine touchdowns. He also contributed with 235 catches for 221 yards and another touchdown. These stats underscore his versatility and potential as a fantasy football asset.
Moody emphasizes that despite Stevenson's continued involvement, Henderson's flashes of brilliance last season were undeniable. With 1,132 scrimmage yards, 10 touchdowns, and an average of 5.1 yards per carry, Henderson had three games where he exceeded 28 fantasy points. Stevenson's fumbling issues might just open the door wider for Henderson to take on a more significant role.
If Henderson's offseason efforts to improve his blocking and pass-catching skills pay off, he could emerge as the most valuable back in an offense led by quarterback Drake Maye. However, it's important to note that while blocking is an essential skill, Henderson's true value lies in his explosiveness. Early last season, the coaching staff's decision to bench him due to blocking struggles was a misstep, as it limited his opportunity to shine.
Thankfully, by mid-season, the Patriots recognized Henderson's game-changing potential. He set a team record with four touchdown runs of 50 yards or more, providing the big-play capability the team had been missing.
As Moody suggests, expectations for Henderson in his sophomore season should be sky-high. Fans can anticipate well over 1,000 rushing yards and at least 300 receiving yards as he continues to develop into a cornerstone of the Patriots' offense.
In Other News...
Patriots Suddenly Have A Real Shot At A Major Tight End Upgrade
The Patriots are heading into the 2026 offseason with a familiar problem at tight end, and Julian Hills season-ending injury only sharpened it. Behind Hunter Henry, the depth chart is thin enough that New England may have to look beyond internal options, with free agency and the trade market both on the table as the team tries to stabilize one of the more important spots in the offense.
One possible path could come from Detroit, where the Lions contract decisions are creating a different kind of roster squeeze and could open the door to movement at tight end. If that develops, New England would have a chance to pursue a major upgrade, whether as a short-term jolt or a longer-range answer if Henry is indeed nearing the end of his Patriots run. Michael Mayer is another name in the mix, but the bigger question is whether the right player actually becomes available. [Read more 🡒]
Nick Wright Took Another Shot At Josh McDaniels And Patriots Fans Noticed
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The bigger issue for New England is what happens next with Drake Maye, because McDaniels track record with quarterbacks has always been part of his value. The Patriots have seen the offense sputter when he was away and look far more functional when he was back, which is why criticism of his standing as a playcaller lands differently here than it might elsewhere, especially with a young quarterback trying to find his footing. [Read more 🡒]
Mike Vrabel Just Sent A Clear Message About Drake Mayes Backup
Mike Vrabels first offseason in charge has already made the Patriots quarterback hierarchy look a lot different, and the latest move only sharpened the picture. After dealing Joe Milton III away, New England moved quickly to add Tommy DeVito, a steadier fit for the kind of backup role the staff seems to want behind Drake Maye as the team keeps building around a more structured offensive identity.
DeVito does not bring the same flash or arm strength that made Milton an intriguing depth option, but that is part of the point. The Patriots appear to be prioritizing a quarterback who matches their timeline and the rhythm of the system, which leaves the backup job looking far less like a competition for upside and more like a fit test for the way New England wants to play under Vrabel. [Read more 🡒]