Everyone knew TreVeyon Henderson was explosive, but the former Ohio State running back wasted no time proving it in his NFL debut. In the New England Patriots’ preseason opener against the Washington Commanders at Gillette Stadium, Henderson turned his first touch into an electric touchdown that had fans on their feet within minutes of kickoff.
How Did TreVeyon Henderson Make Such an Explosive NFL Debut?
Henderson erupted for a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown to open the game, helping power the Patriots to a commanding 48-18 victory over the Commanders.
TREVEYON HENDERSON 100-YD KICKOFF RETURN TD ON HIS FIRST NFL TOUCH 🔥
(via @Patriots)pic.twitter.com/0Lv64I25Oh
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) August 8, 2025
The rookie took the ball at the Patriots’ goal line and showed the vision that made him special at Ohio State. He steered left initially, then cut back across the field to the right around the Patriots’ 40-yard line. After that move, the last person with a realistic chance to catch him was the Commanders’ kicker, and that wasn’t happening. Henderson simply motored down the sideline and into the end zone for his first NFL score.
“I was surprised myself,” Henderson said about the touchdown. “Then when I saw the crease, it was on from there.”
Henderson only played two offensive drives, but he made the most of his limited opportunities. He registered an 18-yard rush that showcased his power and caught three passes for 12 yards through the air before being replaced by the Patriots’ projected starter, Rhamondre Stevenson.
TreVeyon Henderson breaks a tackle at the line of scrimmage and proceeds to lower his shoulder and concuss a Washington defender… this dude was made in a lab. pic.twitter.com/zEpKsZVAOP
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) August 8, 2025
What Does Henderson’s Performance Mean for the Patriots’ Backfield?
Stevenson registered seven carries for 36 yards and remains projected as the Patriots’ starting running back for Week 1 of the regular season. He led the team in rushing in 2024-25 with 801 yards, establishing himself as the primary option. However, if Henderson continues playing like he did in the preseason opener, it won’t be long before the two could exchange their positions as RB1 and RB2.
The Ohio State product proved to be an electric playmaker for the Buckeyes throughout his collegiate career. He posted two 1,000-plus rushing yard seasons and maintained an average of at least five yards per carry in all four seasons, showing the consistency that caught New England’s attention.
Henderson presents a dual threat as both a runner and pass catcher, giving him a potential edge over Stevenson while also helping lighten sophomore quarterback Drake Maye’s workload. He’s also a reliable check-down option who can find open space when plays break down or receivers are covered.
Given his skill set and explosive debut, the 22-year-old Henderson has already begun generating buzz as one of the Patriots’ potential breakout players in 2025-26. While it’s only preseason, his vision, burst, and versatility suggest he could carve out a significant role in New England’s offense sooner rather than later, making him a player to watch closely as the regular season approaches.
