In a hard‑fought Sunday night contest against the Las Vegas Raiders, the New England Patriots suffered two early injuries that could affect the team’s depth moving forward. Running back TreVeyon Henderson exited the game with an ankle issue, while starting left tackle Will Campbell left the field after hurting his knee. Both players are listed as questionable to return for the remainder of the game.
Henderson’s early contribution
Henderson, who entered the game as part of the Patriots’ rotating backfield, managed 22 rushing yards on four carries before his ankle became a concern. He also added a 16‑yard reception, showing his versatility as a dual‑threat back. His early production helped the Patriots build a 21‑7 lead at halftime.
Campbell’s role on the line
Left tackle Will Campbell, a key protector of quarterback Mac Jones, suffered a knee injury during the first half. Campbell’s absence forced the Patriots to turn to rookie Caleb Lomu, the team’s first‑round pick from the 2026 NFL Draft, to fill the left‑tackle spot. Lomu stepped in without prior NFL game experience, highlighting the depth challenges the Patriots face when injuries strike.
Impact on the Patriots’ offense
With Henderson and Campbell sidelined, the Patriots leaned heavily on veteran running back Rhamondre Stevenson. Stevenson broke a 5‑yard run for a touchdown in the first quarter and had accumulated 57 rushing yards by halftime. His increased workload underscores the importance of a reliable, physical runner when the backfield is thinned.
What the injuries mean for the rest of the season
Both Henderson and Campbell are expected to undergo further evaluation by the team’s medical staff. If they are ruled out for an extended period, the Patriots will likely see more snaps for Stevenson and increased responsibility for Lomu on the offensive line. The coaching staff will need to adjust its game plan to accommodate the reduced depth, especially as the Patriots aim to maintain a strong standing in the AFC East.
Looking ahead
The Patriots will next face the Buffalo Bills, a division rival, where the health of their backfield and offensive line will be critical. Fans in the New England area are encouraged to stay tuned for official injury updates from the team’s website and to support the squad as it navigates these setbacks.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.