This Patriots Player Has Become Vital In Drake Maye’s Offense

As the New England Patriots navigate a rebuilt offense under head coach Mike Vrabel, tight end Hunter Henry has quickly become ta go-to target for young quarterback Drake Maye. Now in his his fifth season with the team, Henry’s blend of reliability and big-play ability has turned heads early in the 2025 campaign.

With the Patriots sitting at 1-2 after a tough 21-14 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday, Henry’s contributions nonetheless stand out.

Henry’s emergence as a key contributor didn’t happen overnight. Signed to a three-year extension in March 2024, he built momentum last season with career highs of 66 receptions for 674 yards and two touchdowns, serving as a safety valve for Maye during his rookie year.

This offseason, amid roster additions like wide receiver Stefon Diggs and rookie Kyle Williams, Henry adapted seamlessly to Josh McDaniels’ return as offensive coordinator. Training camp reports discussed his role in two-tight-end sets alongside Austin Hooper, a scheme that emphasizes versatility and red-zone threats. Vrabel has praised Henry’s instincts and veteran poise.

The numbers tell an even clearer story. Through three games, Henry leads the Patriots in receiving with 16 catches for 165 yards and two touchdowns.

His Week 3 masterclass against Pittsburgh—eight receptions on 11 targets for 90 yards and two scores—came despite playing through a knee injury, showcasing his toughness.

As the Patriots face the Panthers in Week 4, Henry’s red-zone prowess should play a factor once again as New England looks to get back to .500. Henry isn’t just contributing to the Pats’ offense right now; he’s anchoring it, offering stability as New England pushes for relevance in the AFC East.