The New England Patriots will be without one of their biggest offensive weapons when they open the 2026 season against the Seattle Seahawks.
Second-year running back TreVeyon Henderson has officially been ruled out of Wednesday night’s season opener because of a lingering ankle injury. Henderson suffered the injury during a Patriots practice on August 24 and has not practiced this week.
The timing could not be worse for New England.
The Patriots are traveling to Seattle for a highly anticipated rematch of Super Bowl LX, giving the team an opportunity to make an early statement against the defending champions. Henderson was expected to play a major role in that matchup, especially after an impressive rookie season.
Henderson finished his first NFL season as New England’s leading rusher, recording 911 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. He also added 221 receiving yards and another touchdown through the air, establishing himself as one of the most explosive players on the Patriots’ offense.
Now, New England will have to find a way to replace his big-play ability.
Veteran Rhamondre Stevenson is expected to receive the majority of the workload with Henderson unavailable. Stevenson rushed for 603 yards and seven touchdowns last season and could be in line for a significant number of carries against Seattle.
The Patriots also have Corey Kiner available, while the team could turn to a practice-squad running back for additional depth.
Henderson’s absence is especially frustrating because the second-year back had become one of the most dangerous home-run threats on the roster. Four of his rushing touchdowns last season covered at least 50 yards.
For an offense trying to start the season with a statement victory, losing a player capable of changing the game with one touch is a major setback.
The Patriots will now have to move forward without Henderson and hope their running game can still keep Seattle’s defense honest.
For Henderson, the focus will shift toward getting healthy and preparing for his return.
For New England, however, the message is simple: they have to find a way to win without one of their biggest stars.
