New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick praised tight end Hunter Henry, following the team’s win against the Miami Dolphins on Sunday.
Henry played a key role in the game by recording five catches for 52 yards on six targets. This was his highest output since he recorded three receptions for 70 yards against the Arizona Cardinals on December 12.
He made an impression on Belichick beyond just his receiving prowess and production. Henry flew to a Miami onside kick, with 1:04 remaining in the fourth quarter, which ultimately helped the Patriots ice the game by running out the clock.
Belichick elaborated on the difficulty of the kick, saying it was challenging because of the velocity of the kick itself. The ball had some zip on it, but not enough where it would bounce out of bounds.
“Those are the ones where, if you’re the end guy, you’ve got to be careful,” said Belichick, via NESN’s Zack Cox. “If you let it go, the outside guy (on the kickoff team) can get it. Even though we’re trying to block him, he’s still out there pretty wide. If you play it and it ricochets, then the ball’s in play, so it’s tough.
“The ball had some speed to it, but it wasn’t kicked hard enough to where you were sure it was just going to go straight out of bounds before anybody would have a chance to get it. He made a real good play.”
Henry’s numbers have been a bit down this year, as he has recorded 35 catches for 467 yards and two touchdowns.
Nevertheless, his production has picked up in recent weeks. New England will need him to be on top of his game, as they prepare for the regular season finale with a playoff berth on the line.
