FOXBOROUGH, MA — The Patriots are officially back in the playoff chase and also, perhaps most importantly, out of the quarterback wilderness.
The team takes on the Cleveland Browns this week for a 1 p.m. kickoff. Here's what to know ahead of Week 8.
What's The Deal With TreVeyon?
Ask any Patriots fan in your life about TreVeyon Henderson and they'll likely explain a roller coaster of emotions.
Billed as a preseason darling after exciting performances at training camp and in games, Henderson hasn't elevated in the way many expected. Though billed as a stellar pass blocker out of college, the Ohio State product seems to be struggling with those assignments at the pro level.
Last week, he also received his lowest snap count of the season, prompting an explanation from offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels.
McDaniels explained that the limited snap count was situational, stating that starter Rhamondre Stevenson was playing well, so the team rode the hot hand.
"I know TreVeyon has led us in carries in other games, and certainly Rhamondre did last week. So, there’s nothing specific. I think all those guys are continuing to work really hard. They play an active role in us improving ourselves in the running game," McDaniels said.
As for Henderson himself, the running back said he is "understanding" of his development pattern.
K’Lavon Chaisson Continues Breakout
The Patriots' signing of K'Lavon Chaisson was met with skepticism by many, who believed the edge rusher perhaps put up fluky numbers the year before compared to previous production.
Chaisson has been trying to put those doubters to bed this year, and emphasized his point with AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his performance against Tennessee.
Chaisson finished the game with three tackles, two sacks and a fumble recovery that he returned for a touchdown in the team's rout of the Titans.
He is already just a half-sack away from surpassing his single-season high of five he set last year with the Las Vegas Raiders.
Boutte's Achilles Ankle
Wide receiver Kayshon Boutte has become a clear top target of quarterback Drake Maye since late last season, and the young player feels like he's rounding into top form.
There is, however, one limitation to Boutte's game that he sees, which comes from a surgically repaired ankle in college.
Boutte told the Boston Herald that his ability to high point the football is limited due to the ankle injury, which saw Boutte have surgery that inserted plates and screws into the ankle.
Read the story here.
How To Catch The Game
Kickoff: 1 p.m.
TV: Fox
Radio: 98.5 The Sports Hub