Patriots' Rookie TreVeyon Henderson Faces Contract Standoff as Training Camp Looms

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jul 15, 2025 8:00 AM ET

The New England Patriots' rookies may have stormed into training camp, but practices don't start firing up until July 23, and second-round pick TreVeyon Henderson’s unsigned contract ignites yet more drama. Will the electrifying Ohio State running back hold out, following a league-wide trend? The NFL world is buzzing.

NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports 30 of 32 second-round picks, including Henderson, remain unsigned, as Los Angeles Chargers’ Tre Harris, drafted No. 55, holds out after missing the rookie deadline. Only Cleveland’s Carson Schwesinger and Houston’s Jayden Higgins secured fully guaranteed deals. This has sparked a league-wide push for similar contracts.

The standoff centers on guaranteed money, and that's no surprise. Spotrac projects Henderson’s No. 38 pick could land a four-year, $11.13 million deal with a $5.4 million signing bonus. Second-rounders, inspired by Schwesinger and Higgins, demand full guarantees, delaying negotiations. New Orleans’ Tyler Shough, picked No. 40, seeks a fully guaranteed deal, further stalling talks for picks like Henderson.

Henderson’s absence on day one of May’s rookie minicamp sparked concern, though ESPN’s Mike Reiss reported, “no reason was given by the team,” and a source downplayed it as “not a major concern.” He joined the next day, showcasing his 4.43-second 40-yard dash speed. His OTA and minicamp performances highlighted his explosive potential.

The Patriots view Henderson as a three-down threat, capable of stretching defenses with his speed and vision. His college stats—1,016 yards at 7.1 yards per carry in 2024—scream big-play ability. Yet, the unsigned contract looms. Will Henderson sign and dazzle, or will the holdout saga escalate? Time is running out.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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