The offense was certainly a priority for the Patriots in this year's draft, as they selected offensive players in the first four rounds. Because the objective was to build a solid team around Drake Maye so he could have a much improved second season, Mike Vrabel and Eliot Wolf ensured he would be put in the best position possible to accomplish that, starting with the selection of left tackle Will Campbell.
They then shocked everyone by taking running back TreVeyon Henderson in the second round, addressing a position that didn't seem to need much help with Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson expected to lead the way.
However, Henderson's explosiveness and pass-blocking talent made him an obvious choice, and now his projected rookie stats make him an all-around certified weapon for Maye to work with immediately.
TreVeyon Henderson's projected rookie stats mean the Patriots have an excellent 1-2 punch in the backfield
Although there didn't seem to be a need for another running back on the Patriots roster, it's hard to downplay the significance of Henderson's addition and how that will elevate the offense in numerous ways.
Besides the fact that he will be another help on the offensive line with his impressive blocking skills, he is also projected (by CBS Sports) to record 191 carries for 909 yards and five touchdowns, proving any and all doubters wrong about his fit on the team.
To make the situation even better, this doesn't account for what he will do in the passing game, which he is also known for, and that makes his rookie season even more exciting to look forward to.
If Henderson can accomplish these projections, he would be the first running back in two seasons to hit or be just shy of 1,000 yards on the ground, something Stevenson accomplished during the 2023 season. The Patriots have long looked to find an RB who could put up similar numbers to those of LeGarrette Blount and James White, and they might have found that in these two players.
It would be incredible if that is what inevitably happens in Vrabel's first season as the Patriots' head coach, as it would be the start of what should be a very successful era in New England.