Patriots kickoff return TD marks Henderson debut

TreVeyon Henderson, a second round pick, returns a kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown in his NFL debut.

Patriots kickoff return TD marks Henderson debut

TreVeyon Henderson, a second round pick, caught the Commanders punter Tress Way’s kickoff at the goal line and sprinted 100 yards for a touchdown. He added 18 rushing yards on one carry and 32 receiving yards on three catches. The Patriots led Washington 27-3 at halftime in a game played at Gillette Stadium.

The play comes amid a league push to make kickoffs more exciting while slowing injuries. The offseason rule change moved touchbacks to the 35-yard line, a shift designed to keep returns in play and boost spectacle for fans.

The run by Henderson provides a tangible example of why NFL leaders want more kickoff action. Speed on kick returns can create immediate momentum and help teams energize both players and fans. If this trend continues, it could influence how coaches design special teams and how players approach the return game.

But framing the moment as a turning point for a coach’s era is risky. One preseason play rarely predicts regular-season impact, and headlines can tilt perception even when the facts are simple. The larger question is whether a few dynamic returns will translate into lasting value for Henderson and the Patriots.

Highlights

A single moment can spark attention, but the season will judge the longer arc of Henderson’s role.