The AFC Championship Game may be a stomping ground for New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry against the Denver Broncos.
According to Pro Football Focus’ Mason P. Cameron, Henry’s effectiveness in the red zone could spell problems for the Broncos defense on Sunday:
“Denver struggled all season against tight ends, ranking 26th in yards and 24th in receptions allowed. Henry is New England’s go-to option near the goal line, leading the team with 11 first-half red-zone targets, including 10 against the blitz. With Denver ranking fifth in red-zone blitz rate, Henry’s usage under pressure lines up well at +1000,” Cameron said.
Henry, 31, has been Patriots quarterback Drake Maye’s second-most targeted receiving option this season with 87 targets. The Arkansas product registered 60 receptions while ranking No. 6 in the NFL with seven receiving touchdowns on the year.
Henry scored the most touchdowns to begin the game for New England in the regular season as well as the playoffs with five. Despite Denver’s stout defense against the pass, Henry has an opportunity to effectively exploit the Broncos’ weakness against tight ends.
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