The New England Patriots’ backfield presents one of the most intriguing fantasy football battles heading into Week 1. TreVeyon Henderson burst onto the scene during the preseason, while Rhamondre Stevenson maintains his veteran presence in what could become a productive committee.
Both running backs offer different paths to fantasy relevance as they prepare to face a vulnerable Las Vegas Raiders defense that could provide opportunities for both players. Can fantasy managers trust either or perhaps both Patriots backs in Week 1?
TreVeyon Henderson Fantasy Outlook
Henderson has transformed from a second-round draft pick to a potential offensive centerpiece through an impressive preseason showing. The Patriots clearly felt running back was a need when they invested the 38th overall selection in the Ohio State product, and his summer performance has validated that decision.
Beat reporters have already begun suggesting that the Patriots view Henderson as their best offensive weapon, a remarkable development for a rookie who hasn’t played a regular-season snap. His explosive athleticism resembles Jahmyr Gibbs in many ways. While no one is truly Gibbs, Henderson could function as a lite version of that dynamic playmaker.
TreVeyon Henderson is fast pic.twitter.com/3Qswep1rC6
— Mark Daniels (@ByMarkDaniels) September 4, 2025
Henderson’s 100-yard kickoff return touchdown in his first preseason touch provided an immediate glimpse of his game-breaking ability. However, his between-the-tackles running has impressed evaluators even more than his obvious speed, with executive vice president Eliot Wolf praising his vision and instincts in that area.
The rookie projects to handle the primary passing down role, with preseason usage suggesting he’ll see plenty of designed looks out of the backfield rather than just checkdowns. Given his explosiveness, big plays remain constantly possible whenever he touches the football.
Henderson’s receiving ability provides additional fantasy value that separates him from typical rookie running backs. Josh McDaniels historically features running backs heavily in the passing game, ranking inside the top 10 in four of his last five full seasons directing NFL offenses.
Rhamondre Stevenson Fantasy Outlook
Stevenson enters Week 1 as the established starter despite Henderson’s preseason buzz, benefiting from his veteran status and proven NFL production. At just 27 years old with a recent contract extension, he’s not going anywhere anytime soon.
The veteran has demonstrated high-end receiving ability, earning a 17.3% target share in 2022 that showcased his ceiling as a pass-catching option. However, his passing game usage has declined significantly since then, with his target share dropping to just 9.3% in 2024.
I miss 2022 Rhamondre Stevenson
The best power back we’ve had in a while pic.twitter.com/HA9lnJi6JR— GP ✰ (@WRLDofMaye) August 2, 2025
Stevenson’s role should focus on early-down work, where his bruising running style complements Henderson’s explosiveness. Based on his size and experience, he represents a safe bet for at least 10-12 carries while maintaining favorite status for goal-line opportunities.
His ball security concerns from past seasons could create opportunities for Henderson to earn additional touches if fumbling issues resurface. However, Stevenson’s familiarity with the system and proven durability keep him entrenched in a significant role.
The veteran’s contract status and established production suggest the Patriots won’t completely phase him out, even if Henderson’s talent eventually demands increased usage. His goal-line work provides the most reliable path to fantasy scoring in Week 1.
Should You Start Henderson or Stevenson This Week?
The Week 1 matchup against Las Vegas provides a favorable environment for both Patriots running backs. Last season, the Raiders allowed the 17th-most fantasy points to running backs, representing an average defensive performance that shouldn’t overwhelm either player.
While the Raiders’ run defense ranking appears respectable, their overall defensive struggles suggest the Patriots should be able to move the ball effectively. This creates scoring opportunities that could benefit both backs in what projects as a potentially high-scoring contest.
Read More: Free Fantasy Football Start/Sit Optimizer
This represents a rare situation where both running backs from the same team qualify as legitimate fantasy starts. Henderson offers the highest floor due to his receiving role and big-play ability, while Stevenson provides greater touchdown potential through his goal-line work.
Given their respective draft positions, Henderson must be in fantasy lineups for managers who invested in him. His explosiveness and pass-catching ability create multiple paths to production that justify his earlier selection.
Stevenson functions as more of a fringe option but represents a viable RB2 in Zero and Hero RB builds and legitimate flex play in leagues with deeper starting rosters. His touchdown upside and guaranteed touches make him startable despite Henderson’s presence.
