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Foxborough, MA – The New England Patriots are set to ignite their 2025 regular season at home against the Las Vegas Raiders, a matchup brimming with anticipation following a transformative offseason. The arrival of head coach Mike Vrabel and a series of strategic roster enhancements have fueled a burgeoning “hype train,” with many NFL observers predicting a significant turnaround for the franchise after two consecutive 4-13 seasons.
Expectations are soaring, with the Patriots favored to double their win total (season line 7.5 wins, Over -145 on FanDuel) and a tangible, albeit challenging, path to the postseason (+164). While a playoff berth in Year 1 of the Vrabel era might be a tall order, a considerable leap from second-year quarterback Drake Maye could make it a reality. However, for Week 1, we’re shifting focus from long-term futures to immediate, high-probability player props that offer compelling value.
While laying the points or even taking New England on the moneyline might not be the wisest move for the opener, several intriguing player props present a strong opportunity for bettors. Here’s a look at the best Patriots-centric wagers for Week 1.
TreVeyon Henderson: A Rookie Sensation Ready to Explode
TreVeyon Henderson Over 65.5 rushing + receiving yards
Odds: -112 (FanDuel Sportsbook)
No player captivated more attention this summer than second-round rookie TreVeyon Henderson. His electrifying explosiveness, a quality sorely missing from New England’s offense for years, is expected to be a cornerstone of Josh McDaniels’ Week 1 game plan. While veterans Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson will undoubtedly have roles, Henderson’s dynamic playmaking ability will be difficult to keep off the field.
This prop holds significant appeal because Henderson can hit the over in multiple ways. Even if primarily deployed in a passing-down role, his home-run potential means just a handful of receptions could push him past this mark. In the preseason, Henderson showcased his versatility: an 18-yard carry against Washington and a 20-yard drive culminating in a touchdown against Minnesota. Given a full workload, a debut featuring 40 rushing yards and 30 receiving yards is well within reach, making this a compelling wager.
Drake Maye’s Untapped Rushing Potential
Drake Maye Over 28.5 rushing yards
Odds: -115 (DraftKings Sportsbook)
Drake Maye’s rushing prowess remains an underrated aspect of his game. In his 12 starts for the Patriots last season (excluding the Week 18 game where he played only three snaps), Maye surpassed 29 rushing yards in six contests. This means the over for this prop cashed at a rate exceeding 50% in his rookie campaign.
With the offensive line still a work in progress and potentially facing early-season challenges against formidable pass rushers like the Raiders’ Maxx Crosby, Maye could find himself scrambling more often. His ability to extend plays with his legs, whether to escape pressure or gain crucial first downs, will be vital. This prop offers excellent value, betting on Maye’s natural athleticism and the circumstances of a developing offensive front. For more insights on the Patriots’ quarterback situation, check out this article on Drake Maye’s preseason performance.
Austin Hooper: An Unlikely Red Zone Threat?
Austin Hooper anytime touchdown
Odds: +625 (BetMGM)
It speaks volumes about the Patriots’ recent offensive struggles that three receiving touchdowns tied for the team lead in 2024. Yet, that’s precisely where tight end Austin Hooper found himself, knotted with receivers DeMario Douglas and Kayshon Boutte. His three scores also surpassed Hunter Henry’s two at the position, making his +625 odds for an anytime touchdown in Week 1 incredibly appealing.
The Raiders’ defense proved vulnerable to tight ends last season, allowing nine receiving touchdowns to the position, tied for the third-most in the league. This presents a clear opportunity for Hooper and the Patriots to exploit a defensive weakness. For those seeking a slightly less risky play, Hunter Henry at +250 (BetMGM and FanDuel) also offers strong value, given the Raiders’ struggles against tight ends. The Patriots’ offensive strategy under McDaniels will likely prioritize exploiting these matchups, making Hooper a dark horse candidate for an early trip to the end zone.
As the Patriots embark on their new era, these player props offer an exciting way to engage with the Week 1 action. Whether it’s the explosive rookie TreVeyon Henderson, the surprisingly mobile Drake Maye, or the veteran tight end Austin Hooper, there are compelling narratives and betting opportunities to watch as New England kicks off its 2025 campaign.
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