Patriots’ Sole Belichick-Era Captain Cherishes Super Bowl Journey

Hunter Henry, the New England Patriots’ reliable tight end, looks back on a transformative journey as he prepares for his first Super Bowl. This Sunday, the Patriots will face the Seattle Seahawks at Levi’s Stadium. Henry has witnessed the ups and downs of the franchise, especially during the Bill Belichick era.

Reflecting on the Belichick Era

Henry’s career with the Patriots has been marked by significant changes. He is one of only 15 players remaining from the Belichick era after the coach’s departure following the 2023 season. Henry expressed deep gratitude for his time with the team, acknowledging both the successes and the struggles.

A Unique Perspective

• Henry is one of six players from the team’s last playoff appearance in 2021.
• He is the sole captain retained by coach Mike Vrabel during restructuring.
• Only Anfernee Jennings and Mike Onwanu, both drafted in 2020, have been with the franchise longer than Henry.

His experiences during the team’s challenging seasons have deepened his appreciation for their current success. “I feel like I’m able to appreciate this a little bit more after going through those hard times,” he stated. The team faced three consecutive sub-.500 seasons, but the recent turnaround has reignited hope.

Confidence Building

Henry sensed the team had potential early in the season. He reflected, “During training camp, I definitely saw some potential for us.” A key moment was their Week 5 victory in Buffalo, which he labeled a turning point. That win boosted team morale and showcased their capabilities on a national stage.

Impressive Winning Streak

Since that critical win, the Patriots have surged, boasting a record of 16 wins out of their last 17 games. Henry has been instrumental in this resurgence. He recorded a career-high of 768 receiving yards and scored seven touchdowns, becoming a primary target for quarterback Drake Maye.

As the Patriots prepare for Super Bowl LX, Hunter Henry’s journey reflects both the resilience of the franchise and the personal growth he has experienced along the way. This matchup not only represents a chance for the team to reclaim glory but also honors the rich history that has shaped their identity.