Patriots Injury Report: A.J. Brown and TreVeyon Henderson Ruled Out for Week 9 vs. Packers

A.J. Brown and TreVeyon Henderson ruled out for Patriots vs. Packers matchup

The New England Patriots will face significant depth challenges this Sunday as wide receiver A.J. Brown and running back TreVeyon Henderson have both been ruled out for the Week 9 game against the Green Bay Packers. According to a report from boston.com, neither player was able to participate in practice this week, forcing head coach Mike Vrabel to finalize their absence ahead of the 4:25 p.m. ET kickoff in Foxborough.

This marks the second game without both Brown and Henderson for New England. While the team maintains a 5-3 record, the loss of these primary offensive weapons places immense pressure on quarterback Drake Maye to manage a depleted roster against a formidable Green Bay defense.

Medical concerns cloud the offensive unit

The circumstances surrounding the two absences differ significantly in nature. A.J. Brown, 29, continues to struggle with persistent ankle and knee injuries. He has managed to play in only three games during his first season with the Patriots, having previously spent four weeks on injured reserve with a high-ankle sprain. Despite his efforts to remain engaged in team meetings, the organization has remained guarded regarding the specific severity of his current knee issue.

Drake Maye on what the offense would lose without TE Hunter Henry: "He’s been someone for me that I can count on since my first snap in there. Since my rookie year he’s been a security blanket."

— https://x.com/iambrianhines/status/2118087991977783805

“I’m not going to speak on other people’s feelings or how they feel. I know he’s working extremely hard to get back, and he’s staying engaged in meetings and everything else, and doing everything that we ask him to do,” Vrabel said during his Friday press conference.

Running back TreVeyon Henderson’s situation is even more complex. The 24-year-old recently disclosed that he was hospitalized following an “unusual medical emergency” characterized by “unexplained neurological symptoms.” Henderson noted that these symptoms have directly impacted his motor skills, a factor that prevented him from practicing since last Thursday. Vrabel expressed strong support for Henderson and his wife, Kenzie, emphasizing that the team is prioritizing a comprehensive recovery plan.

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The impact of these absences extends to the receiving corps and the offensive line. While the team is missing Brown, there is potential relief on the horizon. Newsbreak.com reports that wide receiver Mack Hollins and offensive lineman Greg Van Roten have both been labeled questionable after returning to practice this week. Both players are currently navigating the 21-day reactivation window following stints on injured reserve.

Hollins, 33, has served as a primary target for Maye since Brown’s injury, but his return would provide much-needed stability to a group that has frequently operated with only four active wide receivers. Similarly, the return of veteran Van Roten could bolster an offensive line that has been decimated by injuries since Week 3.

Drake Maye loses his primary security blanket

Beyond the skill positions, the Patriots must also account for the health of tight end Hunter Henry. Listed as questionable with a foot injury sustained during last week’s victory over the Miami Dolphins, Henry’s availability remains uncertain. Although he returned to practice on Friday, his participation has been inconsistent, including multiple trips to the locker room during last week’s contest.

Patriots injury report: A.J. Brown, TreVeyon Henderson ruled out vs. Packers — Photo: newsbreak.com

For Maye, Henry represents more than just a statistical contributor; he is a vital component of the passing game’s rhythm. Maye has frequently referred to the veteran tight end as his “security blanket” since his rookie season in 2024.

The depth chart for Sunday’s contest remains volatile. In addition to Henry, the Patriots have listed several other players as questionable, including:

A.J. Brown and TreVeyon Henderson updates: Patriots vs. Packers | The Pat McAfee Show

Safety Kevin Byard (chest)
Safety Brenden Schooler (hamstring)
Cornerback Carlton Davis (neck)
Offensive tackle Morgan Moses (foot)

The cumulative effect of these injuries creates a high-stakes environment for a New England team attempting to maintain its winning momentum. While the coaching staff has expressed confidence in the players’ work ethic, the physical reality of the injury report leaves the team with few certainties heading into the matchup against the Packers.

The medical recovery timeline for Henderson remains the most significant unknown for the organization. While Brown’s knee and ankle issues are documented, the nature of Henderson’s neurological symptoms and the long-term implications for his motor skills have not been clarified by the team or the player.