In the lead-up to Week 3 of the NFL season in 2025, tight end Hunter Henry of the New England Patriots finds himself in an intriguing position as the team prepares to face the Pittsburgh Steelers. This matchup presents both opportunities and challenges for Henry, making his outlook particularly significant for fantasy football enthusiasts.
Current Performance Metrics
As of the latest reports, Henry is currently ranked as the TE22 in fantasy points per game. This statistic reflects his performance through the first two weeks of the season, during which he has showcased a 66.3% route share. With a 15.9% target share, it’s evident that while Henry is a significant part of the Patriots’ offensive scheme, he still has room for improvement in terms of production.
Specifically, Henry is averaging 1.36 yards per route run, which translates to approximately 37.5 receiving yards per game. Notably, he holds a 17.6% first-read share, indicating that he is a preferred target for quarterback Drake Maye under certain conditions. However, the variability in his target numbers—eight in Week 1 versus just three in Week 2—raises concerns about consistency.
Analyzing the Matchup Against the Steelers
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter Week 3 having generated mixed results defensively. They have given up the seventh-most yards per reception and the 12th-most fantasy points per game to tight ends. This trend could work in Henry’s favor, as the tight end position has historically seen success against the Steelers. With their defensive scheme, Henry could find favorable matchups, particularly if the Patriots utilize quick, intermediate passes.
Nevertheless, it’s important to contextualize Henry’s usage within the broader offensive scheme. With rookie quarterback Drake Maye at the helm, the Patriots have adopted a diverse passing game aimed at distributing targets. This strategy, while beneficial in optimizing the use of available talent, creates volatility in fantasy production for specific players, including Henry.
The Impact of Team Dynamics
One of the significant factors affecting Henry’s outlook is the distribution of targets among the Patriots’ offensive weapons. While he emerged as a primary target in Week 1, Week 2’s drop in target volume reflects a collective approach to offensive play-calling. The presence of other receiving threats—coupled with the evolving rapport between Maye and his receivers—means that Henry could either see a resurgence or remain underutilized in upcoming games.
Moreover, the Steelers’ defense will likely prepare to counteract New England’s threat in the passing game. If they focus on shutting down key receivers, it could potentially open opportunities for Henry to exploit mismatches against linebackers or safeties, particularly in the red zone.
Fantasy Considerations and Streaming Potential
For fantasy football managers contemplating whether to start Hunter Henry in Week 3, the decision should factor in various elements beyond mere statistics. The tight end position is often thrifty in terms of depth, making Henry a viable streaming option against a favorable matchup in the Steelers. Considerations include:
Target Volume: Monitor any updates on Maye’s preferred targets leading up to the game. If preseason nuances indicate that Henry’s target share might stabilize, his value could rise.
GameScript: Should the Patriots fall behind early, this could necessitate a more aggressive passing approach, increasing Henry’s opportunities. Conversely, if the Patriots take an early lead, the offense may pivot towards a run-heavy game, limiting Henry’s involvement.
Injury Reports: Keep an eye on any injuries affecting either the Patriots or Steelers. An offensive injury can elevate Henry’s target share, while a defensive injury on the Steelers could also open opportunities.
- Alternative Tight Ends: Depending on available options in your league, weigh Henry’s potential against those of other tight ends. If you have access to more established or consistent players, it might be prudent to choose them over Henry, even in a favorable matchup.
Conclusion
As Week 3 approaches, Hunter Henry presents an interesting conundrum for fantasy managers. While his statistics suggest he is still finding his place within the newly structured Patriots offense, the favorable matchup against the Steelers provides a glimmer of hope for elevated production. Ultimately, whether you choose to start him may hinge on your roster depth and your approach to risk management.
The unpredictability in Henry’s performance, coupled with the broader dynamics of the Patriots’ offense, underscores the concept of volatility in fantasy football. Those willing to take a calculated risk may find themselves pleasantly surprised by Henry’s output, while more conservative managers might opt for safer options as they navigate the unpredictable waters of the early NFL season. Keep a close watch on the developments leading into kickoff, as the landscape can shift rapidly in the lead-up to game day, ultimately determining Henry’s true value in this exciting Steelers vs. Patriots contest.
