The New England Patriots are dealing with a significant offensive injury heading into their Week 1 matchup against the Seattle Seahawks. TreVeyon Henderson could be out of Wednesday night’s season opener because of an ankle injury, leaving the Patriots without one of their most explosive offensive weapons for a difficult Super Bowl rematch.

Henderson could miss the season opener

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JANUARY 18: TreVeyon Henderson #32 of the New England Patriots reacts as he runs off the field following an NFC Divisional Playoff game against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium on January 18, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

Henderson suffered the ankle injury during practice on August 24 and has not practiced since. The second-year running back was unable to get back on the field during the Patriots’ preparation for Seattle, making his absence official ahead of the opener.

That’s a tough blow for a Patriots offense that was counting on Henderson to provide big-play ability out of the backfield.

Henderson enjoyed an impressive rookie season after New England selected him in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He finished with 911 rushing yards and nine rushing touchdowns, while adding 221 receiving yards and another touchdown through the air. He also led the Patriots in scrimmage yards and total touchdowns.

His explosiveness will be difficult to replace.

Rhamondre Stevenson could see huge workload

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA – FEBRUARY 8: Rhamondre Stevenson #38 of the New England Patriots runs the ball during the NFL Super Bowl LX football game against the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium on February 8, 2026 in Santa Clara California. (Photo by Perry Knotts/Getty Images)

With Henderson sidelined, Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to handle the majority of the Patriots’ running back workload against Seattle.

Stevenson finished last season with 603 rushing yards and nine total touchdowns, and head coach Mike Vrabel has consistently praised his ability as a runner and pass protector. That pass-blocking ability could be particularly important against a Seahawks defense that gave New England plenty of problems in Super Bowl LX.

The bigger concern is what happens behind Stevenson.

New England has only recently added Corey Kiner to the roster, while Lan Larison and Hassan Haskins were potential practice-squad options to provide additional depth. The Patriots ultimately elevated Larison for the opener, giving him an opportunity to make his NFL debut.

Henderson’s absence puts more pressure on Stevenson and the rest of the Patriots’ offense immediately.

And considering Seattle has one of the NFL’s best defenses, losing Henderson is a major challenge for New England to overcome in Week 1.

 

 

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