After his struggles to make an impact early in the season, New England Patriots running back TreVeyon Henderson was finally able to turn that around in the Week 8 game against the Cleveland Browns. While the pressure and frustration to prove himself were obvious, he had patiently put in the effort. But soon after the win, the RB dropped a strong message on social media, seemingly expressing his frustration.

He shared a video of pastor Philip Anthony Mitchell sharing valuable advice. “These people honor me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me,” the rookie wrote across the clip.

It’s unclear whether he was addressing critics or doubters, but the running back has overcome plenty this season to prove himself. Despite matching veteran Rhamondre Stevenson’s production, he saw limited snaps and fewer chances to carry the ball.

Stevenson played about 75% of the offensive snaps (49 total), while Henderson and practice squad back Terrell Jennings each saw only nine. The team explained that the split was due to the difference in competition level between the regular season and preseason, according to RB coach Tony Drews.

Head coach Mike Vrabel ultimately chose to lean on Stevenson despite his fumbling issues. With both backs averaging 3.6 yards per carry this season, many have questioned whether Vrabel’s trust in the veteran is still justified.

But he seemed to have an answer. When questioned about it, the coach said, “You look at last week, at the end of the game.”

He further added, “He steps up, he blocks the inside linebacker. Yesterday, he was blocking in protection, he was up in the A-gap. He goes out, scans out to the nickel, and we’re able to get a big third-down pass off. So he does a lot of things without the football, and then when he does have the football, when he takes care of it, and he’s decisive, he’s been good.”

However, while the rookie clearly wants more reps, he has been understanding about the coach’s decision. “I’m understanding,” he said. “Especially just when it comes to this (Titans) game.

Rhamondre was on a hot streak, so why stop him? Keep feeding him and let him keep going. I’m happy for the way that he played, and whatever comes my way, I’m just grateful and I try my best to take advantage of it.” The coach also had faith in him.

Now, if there were any frustrations, the rookie can finally put them to rest after his terrific performance in Week 8.

Mike Vrabel was impressed with TreVeyon Henderson’s performance against the Browns

The rookie struggled with his weak pass protection and lack of explosive plays. It was understandable why the coaches may have been hesitant. But that has motivated the running back instead.

He has been putting in all the work, and it was on display during the Patriots’ 32 – 13 win over the Browns. He rushed for 75 yards on just 10 carries. And that too against one of the league’s rushing defenses.

The Browns had allowed 82.4 rushing yards per game, and Henderson alone made the most of it. Even if he had a fumble in the last drive, he had been able to put up an impressive performance. Coach Vrabel spoke highly of the player.

“He ran well out in space,” Vrabel said of the RB. “He made a good cut on one of those perimeter plays.”

If Henderson keeps running the way he did against Cleveland, New England’s offense could be tough to slow down. He’s got another great chance against the Falcons. Whether coach Vrabel gives him another opportunity remains to be seen.