In a surprising move during the 2025 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots turned down trade offers from the Chicago Bears and Houston Texans to secure Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson with the No. 38 overall pick in the second round. The decision, revealed in the book Forged in Foxborough, underscores the Patriots’ confidence in Henderson as a key piece of their offensive rebuild.
A Coveted Prospect
TreVeyon Henderson, a 5-foot-10, 202-pound running back, was a standout at Ohio State, showcasing elite speed with a 4.43-second 40-yard dash. In the 2024 college season, Henderson rushed for 1,016 yards, averaging an impressive 7.1 yards per carry, and added 27 receptions for 284 yards. Over his college career, he amassed 48 total touchdowns, cementing his reputation as a dynamic playmaker. NFL analysts, including Daniel Jeremiah of Move The Sticks, praised Henderson as one of the best pass-protecting running backs in recent years, making him an ideal fit for modern NFL offenses.
The Patriots, who selected LSU left tackle Will Campbell in the first round to bolster their offensive line, saw Henderson as a complementary piece to support quarterback Drake Maye, their long-term investment at the quarterback position. The selection of Henderson at No. 38 reflects a strategic focus on building a balanced and explosive offense under new/old offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels, who reportedly had a strong affinity for the Ohio State star.
Trade Offers Turned Down
According to reports, the Chicago Bears made a concerted effort to trade up from their No. 39 pick in the second round, offering the Patriots their No. 39 selection and a seventh-round pick to move up one spot. The Bears’ interest in Henderson aligns with their reported attempts to bolster their roster through aggressive draft-day moves. Similarly, the Houston Texans also engaged in discussions with New England to acquire the No. 38 pick, though the specifics of their offer remain undisclosed. Both teams saw Henderson as a potential game-changer for their backfields, but the Patriots held firm, unwilling to part with the opportunity to draft the talented running back.
The decision to reject these trade offers raised eyebrows across the NFL, as teams often capitalize on opportunities to acquire additional draft capital, especially in the early rounds. However, the Patriots’ front office, led by head coach Jerod Mayo and director of scouting Eliot Wolf, prioritized Henderson’s unique skill set over the potential of additional picks. This move signals a clear commitment to building around young, high-upside players who can contribute immediately.
Strategic Fit for New England
Henderson’s addition to the Patriots’ roster addresses a critical need in their backfield. With Rhamondre Stevenson as the primary running back, Henderson brings a different dimension with his speed, receiving ability, and pass-protection skills. His versatility aligns with McDaniels’ offensive philosophy, which emphasizes multi-dimensional players capable of impacting both the run and pass games. The Patriots’ decision to draft Henderson over trading down suggests they view him as a cornerstone of their offensive identity moving forward.
The move also reflects the Patriots’ broader draft strategy in 2025, which focused on supporting quarterback Drake Maye. By pairing Henderson with Campbell, New England is building a robust offensive foundation to protect and complement their young signal-caller. The rejection of trade offers from the Bears and Texans underscores the team’s belief that Henderson was worth more than the incremental draft capital they could have gained.
Fan and Analyst Reactions
The Patriots’ decision to hold onto the No. 38 pick and select Henderson sparked varied reactions among fans and analysts. On platforms like X, some praised the team’s focus on securing a high-impact player, with one user noting, “Henderson’s speed and pass-blocking make him a steal at 38.” Others questioned whether passing on additional draft picks was the right move, especially for a team in the midst of a rebuild. The consensus, however, is that Henderson’s talent justifies the decision, particularly if he can translate his college production to the NFL.
Analysts have also highlighted the Patriots’ aggressive approach in the 2025 draft. By turning down trade offers for both the No. 3 pick in the first round (used to select Drake Maye) and the No. 38 pick in the second round, New England demonstrated a willingness to prioritize specific targets over accumulating draft capital. This strategy contrasts with the traditional “Patriot Way” under Bill Belichick, which often emphasized trading down to maximize value.
Looking Ahead
As the Patriots prepare for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on TreVeyon Henderson to see if he can live up to the hype. His ability to contribute as a runner, receiver, and pass protector could make him a fan favorite in Foxborough and a critical component of the team’s offensive resurgence. While the decision to reject trade offers from the Bears and Texans may be debated, the Patriots’ confidence in Henderson suggests they see him as a transformative talent capable of elevating their offense.
For now, New England fans can look forward to seeing Henderson don the navy and red, bringing his electrifying playstyle to Gillette Stadium. If he delivers on his potential, the Patriots’ bold draft-day decision could prove to be a defining moment in their 2025 campaign.