Current roster moves have reshaped the depth chart. Terrell Jennings is out for the season and was released with an injury settlement. UDFA Myles Montgomery was waived on August 12. Beyond them, several contenders are vying for the third-down role and occasional early-down carries. Lan Larison and Jam Miller are in contention, though both have missed time due to injuries recently. Hassan Haskins and JaMycal Hasty are also competing for a spot and could receive extended opportunities in the final preseason game against Cleveland.
Lan Larison appears to be leading the race for the third back spot. He has shown solid production in the preseason, and observers note that he profiles as a potential third-down complement. Despite missing practice recently and wearing a non-contact jersey, Larison’s performance has kept him in the mix. In the most recent preseason game, Larison put up 33 rushing yards and a touchdown against Philadelphia, contributing to a competition that has largely favored Jam Miller in the early games. Miller has tallied 25 carries for 91 yards across the first two exhibitions. Miller, a seventh-round pick this year, represents a higher draft investment than Larison, who was undrafted in 2025. Larison did miss the 2025 preseason with a foot injury that placed him on injured reserve, making this the first opportunity for him to showcase his capabilities on the field for the Patriots.
Meanwhile, the team faces a potential shift if Henderson’s status changes. Henderson experienced a scare during a recent practice, leaving early with an apparent foot or ankle issue. He did not participate in subsequent sessions, and it’s uncertain how severe the injury is or how much time he might miss. If Henderson is limited or sidelined, the third running back role becomes even more critical as the Patriots prepare for the regular season.
With the preseason finale approaching, the Patriots will conclude their exhibition slate facing the Browns. The outcome of that game could influence the final decision on who earns the third-back job and how the backfield rotations are structured for Week 1. As the roster solidifies, the team will weigh durability, pass-catching ability, and the versatility of each candidate to determine who best complements Stevenson and Henderson.
Key takeaways:
– The backfield features Stevenson and Henderson as the primary rushing duo.
– The battle for the third running back spot centers on Lan Larison, Jam Miller, Hassan Haskins, and JaMycal Hasty.
– Larison has a growing contention due to preseason production, despite some recent practice limitations.
– Henderson’s injury status could impact depth at the position and elevate the importance of the third back.
– The final preseason game against Cleveland will help shape the final roster decision and depth chart for Week 1.
