At the end of every NFL season, teams across the league are banged up, and many big-name players are dealing with injuries heading into the playoffs or are done for the year. The Patriots were facing that reality last week against the Ravens, as several players left the game early due to various injuries.
That meant they could be down a long list of starters in their next matchup with the Jets this week, or even longer, especially since three players were in concussion protocol. One of them was running back TreVeyon Henderson, who has become an integral part of their offensive success over the past month, and was seen at practice in a red non-contact jersey.
While it was a good sign that he was able to practice, it wasn't ideal that he couldn't fully participate like his teammates.
But that changed on Friday, as Henderson was back at practice without the red jersey, and it's fair to assume he will be active for Sunday's game, if not, at least able to play if the Patriots deem it necessary.
RB TreVeyon Henderson (32) is here at Friday’s in-stadium practice, and no longer wearing a red, non-contact jersey.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) December 26, 2025
WR Mack Hollins (abdomen) among the absences. pic.twitter.com/DEOnNt9xxa
The Patriots should have TreVeyon Henderson available to suit up against the Jets
Given where they are in the season and knowing they have already clinched the playoffs, there's a good chance the Patriots will keep some of their injured players sidelined until the postseason begins to avoid the risk of further injury.
That could be the case with Henderson, who got banged up in last week's primetime showdown, and the majority of the run game could be put on the shoulders of Rhamondre Stevenson.
The veteran has become a reliable option for Drake Maye after the first month of the season, which was plagued by fumbles that have been a recurring problem throughout his career. Now that it seems behind him again, it wouldn't be a bad idea to ensure Henderson is fully healthy for the playoffs and rely on Stevenson out of the backfield for the final two games.
It certainly helps that they're facing the Jets and the Dolphins, both of whom are dealing with various injuries, as well, and questionable quarterbacks.
Because the Patriots are heavily favored to win these games, it wouldn't be a bad idea to keep some starters on the sideline to have them more ready to go come the playoffs. But we'll see what they ultimately decide and hopefully, it will be the right choice.