What Special Skill Made the Patriots Break the Mold to Draft TreVeyon Henderson at No. 38?

The New England Patriots have long been known for their disciplined, methodical approach to building a roster. Rarely do they make flashy moves in the NFL Draft, preferring to find value and versatility over highlight-reel potential. Yet in 2025, they broke from tradition by selecting running back TreVeyon Henderson with the 38th overall pick. It wasn’t just Henderson’s raw speed or his college production that prompted the Patriots to make this move — it was a special, often underrated skill: his elite ability to protect the quarterback.

While Henderson’s electrifying runs at Ohio State made headlines, insiders point to his mastery of pass protection as the real reason the Patriots deviated from their typical draft strategy. In today’s NFL, protecting a young quarterback is paramount, and with Drake Maye stepping into the spotlight as New England’s future, finding a back who can both carry the ball and serve as an extension of the offensive line became a top priority.

Henderson’s understanding of blitz pickup, his quick recognition of defensive schemes, and his willingness to engage physically with incoming defenders made him stand out among his peers. Many college running backs struggle with pass blocking due to lack of experience or technique. Henderson, however, showed a veteran-level grasp of these concepts, consistently neutralizing linebackers and providing a clean pocket for his quarterback. According to multiple scouting reports, he was regarded as the best pass-protecting running back in the 2025 draft class.

But Henderson’s appeal doesn’t stop there. His ability to contribute as a receiver out of the backfield adds another layer to his value. During his time at Ohio State, he caught 77 passes for 853 yards and six touchdowns, showing soft hands and impressive route-running. This dual-threat capability makes him a perfect fit for a modern NFL offense — and a perfect safety valve for a young quarterback learning the ropes.

The Patriots’ decision to draft Henderson at No. 38 wasn’t based solely on what he could do with the ball in his hands; it was about what he could do without it. His football IQ, toughness, and willingness to do the dirty work make him an ideal addition to a Patriots offense that is evolving around its new quarterback. With Henderson on the field, Drake Maye can operate with greater confidence, knowing he has a reliable protector and an outlet in the passing game.

In a draft class filled with offensive stars and athletic marvels, it was TreVeyon Henderson’s unselfish, detail-oriented approach that made the Patriots break the mold. They didn’t just draft a running back — they drafted a guardian for their future. If Henderson’s transition to the NFL is as smooth as his college tape suggests, Patriots fans may one day look back at this pick as the beginning of a new, smarter, and more dynamic era in New England.