Disaster Strikes in New England: Patriots Face RB Meltdown as Mike Vrabel Turns to a Practice Squad Hope for Thursday Night Survival. DH
Injuries Hit Hard as Mike Vrabel Turns to Practice Squad Talent Rushawn Baker
The New England Patriots are staring down a major offensive dilemma heading into Thursday Night Football, as injuries have decimated their running back depth chart. With Terrell Jennings sidelined by a knee injury and Rhamondre Stevenson still battling a lingering toe issue, head coach Mike Vrabel is being forced to dig deep — possibly turning to practice squad back Rushawn Baker to carry a critical load.
This unexpected situation has quickly become one of the biggest storylines of Week 11, with the Patriots’ ground game in question and their playoff hopes hanging in the balance.
A Perfect Storm of Bad Timing
Few teams rely on the run as heavily as the Patriots do under Vrabel’s system. But just as the offense appeared to be finding balance, the injury bug struck at the worst possible moment.
- Terrell Jennings, who has impressed with his burst and vision this season, suffered a knee injury in Sunday’s win — and early reports indicate he will miss at least several weeks.
- Rhamondre Stevenson, the team’s bruising lead back, continues to battle a painful toe injury that has limited his explosiveness and availability in recent games.
- TreVeyon Henderson, the rookie who’s emerged as one of the team’s most promising young weapons, has shouldered a heavy workload but can’t realistically carry the entire offense by himself on short rest.
That leaves Rushawn Baker, a former undrafted free agent who has spent most of the season on the practice squad, as the next man up.
Meet Rushawn Baker: The Underdog Story
Baker, 24, has been a quiet but consistent presence at practice since joining New England earlier this season. Known for his strong lower body and patient running style, he’s drawn comparisons to former Patriot BenJarvus Green-Ellis — a grinder who finds ways to move the chains.
“Rushawn’s been working hard all year,” said offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt. “He’s got a good feel for the game, and he’s earned this opportunity.”
Teammates have reportedly rallied around Baker as he prepares for what could be his NFL debut on national television. For the young back, this is more than just a roster promotion — it’s a chance to prove he belongs.
“Every guy dreams of this moment,” Baker told reporters after practice. “I’ve been staying ready. If my number’s called, I’ll be ready to go.”
Mike Vrabel’s Challenge: Rebuilding the Game Plan
With both Jennings and Stevenson sidelined or limited, Vrabel and the offensive staff must rethink their approach. The Patriots’ offensive identity has always been grounded in balance and physicality, but the lack of healthy backs could force them into a more pass-heavy scheme — a risky adjustment given the team’s struggles with protection and consistency under center.
Expect Vrabel to mix in creative formations, using Henderson as a dual-threat weapon while rotating Baker in short-yardage and early-down situations. The team could also activate another back from the practice squad or even explore emergency options at fullback.
“We’ll do whatever gives us the best chance to win,” Vrabel said in his Wednesday press conference. “It’s not ideal, but it’s football. Next man up.”
TreVeyon Henderson: The Rookie Under Pressure
While Baker’s story is inspiring, much of the spotlight remains on TreVeyon Henderson, who has quickly become the centerpiece of New England’s offense. The rookie has shown flashes of brilliance — particularly his vision in the open field — but durability concerns and workload management will be crucial this week.
Henderson has averaged 4.9 yards per carry over his last three games, but Thursday’s matchup will test his stamina and adaptability. If defenses key in on him, Vrabel will need others — including Baker — to step up.
The Stakes Couldn’t Be Higher
The Patriots are teetering on the edge of playoff contention, making Thursday’s matchup pivotal. A loss could severely damage their postseason hopes, while a win would send a message that Vrabel’s team can withstand adversity and find new ways to compete.
For Baker, it’s the kind of opportunity undrafted players dream about — a chance to turn practice squad obscurity into prime-time glory. For Vrabel, it’s a test of adaptability and leadership under pressure.
“We’re not going to make excuses,” Vrabel said firmly. “This is the NFL. Everyone’s dealing with something. We’ve got a job to do, and that’s to win.”
Final Thoughts: The Patriots’ Backfield in Crisis Mode
As kickoff approaches, one thing is certain — the Patriots’ running back situation is officially in crisis mode. But in true New England fashion, adversity might just bring out their best.
If Rushawn Baker can make the most of his moment and Henderson continues his upward trajectory, the Patriots could not only survive this setback but emerge stronger for it.
Still, the question looms: Can Mike Vrabel’s Patriots keep their offense afloat without their top backs? Thursday night will provide the answer — and possibly launch a new name into the NFL spotlight.
