Rookie RB Shines as Patriots Backfield Faces Challenges

As of November 14, 2025, the New England Patriots have officially ruled out four players for their upcoming Thursday Night Football matchup against the New York Jets. The injured players include running back Rhamondre Stevenson (toe), wide receiver Kayshon Boutte (hamstring), tight end Austin Hooper (concussion), and linebacker Christian Elliss (hip).

This will be the third straight game that Stevenson has missed, while Boutte and Elliss will also be sidelined for the second consecutive week. Hooper, on the other hand, will be making his first absence due to being in concussion protocol.

Despite the significant injuries, the Patriots have received a boost from rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson. In Week 10, Henderson had a breakout performance, rushing for 147 yards and scoring two touchdowns against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

With Stevenson ruled out and Antonio Gibson on long-term injured reserve, Henderson may be the only viable option at running back for the Patriots against the Jets. Terrell Jennings, who had been the team's RB2, is also questionable for the game due to a knee injury.

If Jennings is unable to play, the Patriots will turn to D'Ernest Johnson as their second running back. Johnson has bounced around the league and has limited experience, so the team may need to rely heavily on the rookie Henderson to carry the load on Thursday night.