Hunter Henry has stepped up to play a big role this season for the Patriots at Tight End, scoring in each of the past 4 games. This week, Henry looks forward to returning to Los Angeles to play his former team, the Chargers. “I’ll always have a lot of appreciation for them” said Henry regarding the Chargers drafting him in 2016 and giving him the opportunity to play in the NFL. In 2020, Henry caught 60 receptions for 613 yards and 4 touchdowns before missing the last two games due to COVID-19. Henry played alongside rookie quarterback Justin Herbert who he built a good relationship both on and off the field with.  Henry said he enjoyed his time with Herbert but was excited for a new journey and to grow a new relationship with another rookie quarterback, Mac Jones.

So far this season, Henry has caught 24 receptions for 264 yards 4 touchdowns. Bringing in 75% of his receptions, Henry is averaging 3.4 receptions a game for an average of 37.7 yards per reception. Henry has also seen several special teams reps and even earned praise from head coach Bill Belichick. “He has done a lot of little subtle things well.” Said Belichick. Henry responded “when my number is called, I try to do as much as I can for this team. I’m just trying to win football games.”

The Patriots offense is hot, coming off a 54-point game against the Jets, but playing against the Chargers this week will not be another walk in the park. Belichick said about the Chargers defense, “they have a good solid secondary and a solid defense all the way through.” They have a sound scheme, and make you earn what you get. Belichick said, “Coach Staley does a good job at keeping you off balance.” The Chargers like to play with 5 down linemen, which is uncommon in today’s league. “They got a lot of guys that are hard to block on the line of scrimmage” said Belichick, including Joey Bosa who has 13 sacks so far this season. They also turn the ball over well, and force offenses into 3rd and long situations. So far, the Chargers defense has brought in 6 interceptions. Mac Jones will have to make smart throws and keep turnovers to a minimum. The key for the Patriots victory is to find success in the passing game, and defensively the Patriots need to find a way to stop Justin Herbert.