The Patriots are still reeling from a Week 1 loss to the Seahawks on opening night, but they could receive a major boost in Week 2.
TreVeyon Henderson is working his way back from an ankle injury that cost him the season opener, and his practice status on Wednesday served as an encouraging sign as the team determines whether he can suit up against the Steelers.
The Patriots will undoubtedly be looking for Drake Maye and the passing game to have a steadier day against Pittsburgh, but with A.J. Brown out, it wouldn’t be surprising to see Josh McDaniels lean on the running game.
Here’s the latest on Henderson’s status.
TreVeyon Henderson Injury Update
Henderson was listed as a full participant in Wednesday’s practice ahead of Week 2, a strong sign for his availability against the Steelers.
Patriots RB TreVeyon Henderson (ankle) was a full participant in practice today. Looks like he’ll return in Week 2 and share the backfield with Rhamondre Stevenson.
— Field Yates (@FieldYates) September 16, 2026
The second-year running back’s status for the season opener in Seattle came in doubt in the days leading up to Week 1, and he was ruled out well ahead of the game. With Henderson out, Rhamondre Stevenson handled the bulk of the carries out of New England’s backfield.
McDaniels and Mike Vrabel were most comfortable operating with the two-headed monster of Henderson and Stevenson last season, so a Henderson return could allow the offense to look more like it did in 2025.
Here’s more to know about Henderson’s status for Sunday.
Will TreVeyon Henderson play vs. Steelers?
Henderson appears to be on track to play against the Steelers now that he has returned to practice as a full-time participant, but the Patriots haven’t yet said that he will be active for his season debut.
Vrabel told reporters before Wednesday’s practice that Henderson continued to “trend in the right direction” with his ankle.
“We’ll continue to evaluate that and see where he is,” Vrabel said, adding that the running back would be more involved in practice.
Henderson appeared in all 17 games during his rookie season, rushing for 911 yards and nine touchdowns on 5.1 yards per carry as part of a timeshare with Stevenson.
