New England Patriots’ Playoff Hopes Dim as TreVeyon Henderson Enters Concussion Protocol
The New England Patriots may be celebrating their first playoff berth since 2021, but this achievement has come with a heavy toll. As the team gears up for Week 17, head coach Mike Vrabel announced that multiple players are dealing with injuries sustained during their pivotal win over the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium.
Injury Concerns Mount for the Patriots
Vrabel confirmed that approximately nine players were evaluated for various injuries following the intense matchup. Among those affected are running back TreVeyon Henderson, wide receiver Kayshon Boutte, and left guard Jared Wilson, all of whom have entered concussion protocol.
The injury to Henderson is particularly concerning. Late in the second quarter, with the Patriots facing a 1st-and-10 at the Ravens’ 25-yard line and just 7:06 remaining on the clock, Henderson took a hit that left him slow to rise after falling backward during a short run. Although he managed to walk off the field unaided and was initially deemed questionable to return, he was ultimately ruled out for the remainder of the game by halftime. This unfortunate turn of events limited him to just five yards on three carries.
Henderson’s Impact on the Team
When healthy, TreVeyon Henderson has been a standout performer for the Patriots, showcasing the skills that have made him one of the team’s most dynamic offensive threats this season. His breakaway speed and ability to accelerate have distinguished him from his peers, and his contributions have been significant. So far this season, the Ohio State product has racked up 776 rushing yards on 148 attempts, scoring seven touchdowns in the process.
In last week’s contest against Buffalo, Henderson delivered a stellar performance, rushing for 148 yards on 14 carries and finding the end zone twice while also catching two passes for 13 yards. Should he be sidelined for any duration, New England will undoubtedly feel the absence of his big-play capability.
Prioritizing Health Over Playoff Push
While the excitement of making the playoffs is palpable, the Patriots’ primary focus will need to be on ensuring Henderson’s complete recovery. As the team prepares for the postseason, the health of their key players, including Henderson, Boutte, and Wilson, will be crucial to their success. With the stakes high, the Patriots will be taking every precaution to ensure that their squad is at full strength when the playoffs commence.
