Will Campbell, TreVeyon Henderson, Kyle Williams, Jared Wilson, and Craig Woodson provided immediate impact for the Patriots in the 2025 draft class, with Andy Borregales added as a Day 3 kicker. Rookie production tailed off in the playoffs, except for Woodson, but the team’s outlook for 2026 remains encouraging due to a full offseason and several veteran additions. ESPN’s Mike Clay projects Henderson’s 2026 production to dip, with 202 carries for 888 yards and seven touchdowns. The projection reflects a possible sophomore slump, though reaching 1,000 yards is still considered plausible. The offensive line is projected to improve, with Will Campbell and Morgan Moses as starters and Jared Wilson moving to center, plus Alijah Vera-Tucker and Caleb Lomu joining the group.
"The impact these rookies had tailed off in the playoffs, except Woodson, but that shouldn't be a reason to write any of them off heading into 2026. Despite a more difficult schedule, a full offseason to work together and the addition of several important veterans are encouraging for New England."
"Clay predicts Henderson will take 202 carries for 888 yards and seven touchdowns next season. That's an increase in carries compared to '25, but a decrease in yards and touchdowns compared to his rookie regular season."
"He took 10+ carries only once in his first seven games, averaging just 21.9 yards per outing during that time, with just 3.6 yards per carry. In his next ten games, he averaged 75.8 yards per game, while his yards per carry shot up to 5.5. 9 of his 10 total touchdowns came during the last ten weeks."
"The Patriots' line is improved, at least on paper, compared to 2025. Tackles Will Campbell and Morgan Moses are once again the projected starters, but Jared Wilson makes the move to his more natural center position following an up-and-down rookie campaign. Alijah Vera-Tucker was the marquee free agent addition to pair with Mike Onwenu at guard. Caleb Lomu was selected in the first round, and he'll operate as a swing tackle in his rookie season."
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