FOXBOROUGH - As the Patriots offense undergoes another transformation in 2025, one constant remains: Hunter Henry. Entering his fifth season in New England, Henry has been a reliable presence, emerging as a leader and stabilizing force amid two offseasons of significant organizational change.

Since signing with the Patriots in 2021, Henry has totaled 199 receptions for 2,205 yards and 19 touchdowns across 64 games. He's been the team's most consistent red zone threat and a trusted target regardless of who's under center.

In 2024, Henry set a career high with 66 receptions and 674 yards, tying Pop Douglas for the team lead.

Prior to Monday's practice, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel praised Henry's calm and confident demeanor, comparing him to former All-Pro safety Kevin Byard, who played under Vrabel in Tennessee.

"He's a very comfortable player," Vrabel said. "Anything you ask him to do comes easy. He's instinctive and has a good feel for the game. That leads to his consistency."

Henry 's consistency and approach have helped him navigate the valleys of the past two seasons, which included back-to-back four-win seasons.

"I think I've grown more in the last two years than I have in the last 28 years of my life," Henry said. "There's been a lot of growth in those valleys. When you dig in and keep pushing, something good is going to come on the other side."

A Veteran Voice in the Room

Henry is also one of the few offensive players with prior experience working with Josh McDaniels, having played under him in 2021. That familiarity has made him a valuable voice in the locker room.

"Josh's level of knowledge and how he helps us learn and take steps forward has been impressive," Henry said. "He's a tremendous teacher. You learn something new with him every single day."

Henry has embraced a mentorship role, helping younger players adjust to the system and offering guidance during walkthroughs and meetings.

"I've been able to be a resource for the guys," he said. "I want us all to be successful. We need everybody, especially on offense."

Pop Douglas Making Noise Early, Taking on Leadership Role

DeMario Douglas equaled Henry for the team lead in catches in 2024 and has continued that pace as one of the 2025 offense's most dynamic playmakers through five camp practices. Douglas caught a highlight pass from Drake Maye during Saturday's session and has been a standout through the first week of camp, hauling in multiple catches, many of them contested or on the fringe of his catch radius.

"We're back to real football," Douglas said on Monday after getting the pads on with his trademark smile. "I'm feeling good, just doing what I do. I'm having fun out there."

Douglas posted 49 catches for 561 yards as a rookie in 2023 and then built on that with 66 catches for 621 yards in his second season. But it's not just on the field where Douglas is making strides.

"I wasn't a vocal leader back then, but now I'm not scared to say, 'Come on, I expect more out of you,'" Douglas said. "I learned every position just in case somebody has a question."

Vrabel recognized Douglas as one of the team's offseason award winners, citing his energy and work ethic.

"He worked extremely hard, was here every day, ready to learn and earn a role," Vrabel said. "I love being around Pop. He's got a lot of respect from everybody around here."

DISCLAIMER: The views and thoughts expressed in this article are those of the writer and don't necessarily reflect those of the organization. Read Full Disclaimer