Posted on Dec 26

Patriots face Jets missing five starters, with Henderson's health in question

Posted Dec 26, 2025

The New England Patriots face significant challenges as they prepare to meet the New York Jets, missing key starters due to injuries.

Why it matters: The Patriots are contending for their first AFC East title since 2019 and need a win against the Jets to maintain that pursuit.
With a current record of 12-3, victory would not only secure a division title but could also position them for the AFC's top seed and a coveted first-round bye in the playoffs.

What’s new: The Patriots will be without five starters for this crucial matchup.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson, who leads the team with 776 rushing yards, left the previous game with a concussion.
Other key players sidelined include wide receivers Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins, defensive end Harold Landry III, linebacker Robert Spillane, and left guard Jared Wilson.

Yes, but: Despite these setbacks, Head Coach Mike Vrabel remains optimistic about the team's depth and resilience.

"Everybody deals with it. This is not something that's new to the National Football League," he stated, emphasizing the importance of adapting and elevating players from the practice squad.

What to watch: The Patriots road performance has been remarkable this season.

A win over the Jets would improve their road record to 8-0, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure away from home.
Vrabel noted, “I think that it would mean a lot. We know how difficult that is. Nothing is guaranteed. You have to go over there, you have to prove it, and you have to play.”

By the numbers: Henderson's absence may heavily influence the Patriots' offensive strategy.

His average of 5.2 yards per carry has been a critical component of their ground game, and his production will need to be replaced by other running backs if they are to maintain an effective offense against the Jets’ defense.

The bottom line: As the Patriots navigate these injury challenges, their quest for a division title hinges on their ability to adapt quickly and leverage their depth.

With the playoffs looming, every game counts, and the upcoming match against the Jets will test both their roster’s resilience and strategic adaptability.

Patriots face Jets missing five starters, with Henderson's health in question

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 26, 2025

The New England Patriots face significant challenges as they prepare to meet the New York Jets, missing key starters due to injuries.

What’s new: The Patriots will be without five starters for this crucial matchup.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson, who leads the team with 776 rushing yards, left the previous game with a concussion.

Other key players sidelined include wide receivers Kayshon Boutte and Mack Hollins, defensive end Harold Landry III, linebacker Robert Spillane, and left guard Jared Wilson.

Yes, but: Despite these setbacks, Head Coach Mike Vrabel remains optimistic about the team's depth and resilience.

"Everybody deals with it. This is not something that's new to the National Football League," he stated, emphasizing the importance of adapting and elevating players from the practice squad.

What to watch: The Patriots road performance has been remarkable this season.

A win over the Jets would improve their road record to 8-0, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure away from home.

Vrabel noted, “I think that it would mean a lot. We know how difficult that is. Nothing is guaranteed. You have to go over there, you have to prove it, and you have to play.”

By the numbers: Henderson's absence may heavily influence the Patriots' offensive strategy.

His average of 5.2 yards per carry has been a critical component of their ground game, and his production will need to be replaced by other running backs if they are to maintain an effective offense against the Jets’ defense.

The bottom line: As the Patriots navigate these injury challenges, their quest for a division title hinges on their ability to adapt quickly and leverage their depth.

With the playoffs looming, every game counts, and the upcoming match against the Jets will test both their roster’s resilience and strategic adaptability.