New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry popped up on the injury report with a knee issue, but it doesn’t sound overly serious. According to the team’s official report, the 10-year veteran practiced in full on Thursday, which heavily suggests he will play in Sunday’s contest against the Houston Texans, barring an unforeseen setback.
Hunter Henry Injury Update: Patriots TE Likely to Play Against Texans
This is great injury news for the Patriots, as Hunter Henry has been one of the team’s most reliable weapons throughout the season. While nobody will confuse him with prime Rob Gronkowski, the former second-round pick has done a remarkable job as the top tight end in the passing attack while serving as Drake Maye’s safety outlet.
Starting and appearing in all 17 games, Henry finished the season with 60 receptions for 768 yards and seven touchdowns on 87 targets. The yardage was the highest mark of his career and second-best on the team, behind only Stefon Diggs. He also had a strong playoff performance against the Chargers, hauling in three of his five targets for 64 yards and the game’s only touchdown.
Henry and the Patriots face off against what is likely their toughest competition of the season in the Houston Texans. Led by an elite defense, the team started the year 0-3 but finished with a 12-5 record and the fifth seed in the playoffs. The team dominated the Pittsburgh Steelers in the Wild Card round and has legitimate Super Bowl aspirations.
While defeating them won’t be easy, it’s worth noting they won’t have star wide receiver Nico Collins, while the Patriots will have lockdown cornerback Christian Gonzalez. Additionally, the game will be played in the cold of Foxboro, Massachusetts, and there is a chance of snow during the game. Only time will tell who emerges victorious, but having Hunter Henry will increase New England’s odds of winning this one.
Main Photo: Eric Canha – Imagn Images
