Patriots rookie TreVeyon Henderson could step into the spotlight against Atlanta as Rhamondre Stevenson deals with a toe injury

The New England Patriots have been one of the best stories of the 2026 season, starting 6-2 behind fantastic second-year quarterback Drake Maye and new head coach Mike Vrabel.

The Atlanta Falcons have with some key injuries on both sides of the ball as they prepare for this Sunday's game against the New England Patriots. Offensively, the Falcons are especially banged up entering Week 9. Quarterback Michael Penix Jr., tight end Kyle Pitts and wide receiver Drake London were listed on Wednesday's injury report.

As the last lineman on the edge of the protection in a conventional tight end spot, opponents often try to bulldoze players in Tonga’s position. They’ll send two or three rushers at the corner of protection, hoping to cave the lineman in to block a kick.

The Atlanta Falcons appear to be on the right track, health-wise, heading into a critical matchup with the New England Patriots in Week 9.

The Falcons also used a top-10 pick on a quarterback last year, selecting Michael Penix Jr. with the No. 8 overall selection. However, Penix has only started nine NFL games after spending most of his rookie year backing up Kirk Cousins.

The Patriots haven't allowed an opposing player to rush for 50 yards or more this season. That streak will be tested Sunday against the Falcons.

In the immortal words of the ancient Roman philosopher Seneca, “Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.” Since the start