Ex-Buckeye star, national champion lands fully guaranteed rookie deal with Patriots

New England just secured a national champion and former Ohio State star with a fully guaranteed $11 million rookie deal. This explosive running back is set to make an immediate impact in the Patriots’ offense.

The Ohio State Buckeyes keep making noise in the NFL, and this week, one of their most dynamic former stars officially inked his rookie deal — one of several fully guaranteed contracts handed out across the league.

TreVeyon Henderson is the latest Buckeye to make headlines at the next level. The New England Patriots took the standout running back with the 38th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft and made it official Friday night.

Per ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Henderson signed a four-year deal worth $11.143 million, with the full amount guaranteed. That includes a $4.74 million signing bonus. He was the 18th player from the second round to sign in a two-day window — and only the fifth to secure a fully guaranteed contract.

The four players drafted ahead of him to receive similar terms were Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger, Houston Texans wide receiver Jayden Higgins, Seattle Seahawks safety Nick Emmanwori, and Miami Dolphins guard Jonah Savaiinaea.

Henderson didn’t arrive at Ohio State quietly. As the top running back in the 2021 class and one of the highest-ranked recruits in the country, expectations were sky-high.

He made an impact right away. 

His freshman year showed exactly why he was so highly regarded — with his burst, vision, and ability to make plays in space. Even as injuries slowed him down at times, Henderson remained a steady part of the Buckeyes’ offense throughout his four years in Columbus.

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His final season was his most impactful. Paired with Quinshon Judkins in the backfield, Henderson helped lead Ohio State to its first national title since 2015. The two formed a dangerous duo, consistently tilting the field in the Buckeyes’ favor during their College Football Playoff push.

By the time his college career wrapped up, Henderson had piled up 3,761 rushing yards, 42 touchdowns, and an average of 6.4 yards per carry. He also averaged 80 rushing yards per game. 

But what truly made him stand out was his versatility — he caught 77 passes for 853 yards and six scores, proving he was more than just a runner.

His defining moment came in the national semifinal against Texas. With the score tied 7–7 and time winding down in the first half, Henderson took a screen pass 75 yards to the house — a momentum-swinging play that gave Ohio State the lead and set the tone for the rest of the game.

Now, he brings that same explosiveness to New England.

The Patriots didn’t just pick up a running back — they added a weapon who’s built for big moments.

Category: General Sports