Rhamondre Stevenson Full Workload, Henderson Ruled Out

TreVeyon Henderson Ruled Out for Week 8 Against Dolphins

New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson has been ruled out for Sunday’s matchup against the Miami Dolphins after missing the team’s final two practices with an illness.

Henderson was initially listed as questionable on Friday’s injury report but was downgraded to out on Saturday after failing to make enough progress to return. The second-year running back did not travel with the team to Miami and will miss his second game of the season.

The former Ohio State standout also missed New England’s season opener because of an ankle injury. He has appeared in six games this season, recording 52 carries for 203 yards and one touchdown. Henderson has also contributed as a receiver out of the backfield, although his role has remained secondary to Rhamondre Stevenson.

With Henderson unavailable, Stevenson is expected to handle an increased workload against Miami. The veteran has established himself as New England’s primary running back and played 68 percent of the offensive snaps in the team’s Week 7 loss to the Chicago Bears.

Corey Kiner is also expected to see additional opportunities behind Stevenson. New England has added running back Lan Larison to its active roster, giving it another option in the backfield rotation. Larison previously appeared for the Patriots in Week 1 when Henderson was unavailable.

Henderson’s absence comes at a difficult time for a New England offense already dealing with several injuries. Wide receiver A.J. Brown was also downgraded to out after being listed as questionable with ankle and knee issues. Brown missed the final two practices of the week.

The Patriots will need to adjust their offensive approach against Miami with multiple contributors unavailable. Stevenson’s workload is expected to increase, while Kiner and Larison provide additional depth at running back.

Fantasy Impact

Henderson will have an opportunity to return in Week 9 when New England faces the Green Bay Packers. His availability will depend on how quickly he recovers from the illness.