The rare disease that TreVeyon Henderson suffers from and his struggle with "unexplained" neurological symptoms

T reVeyon Henderson has opened up about a worrying health situation that has kept him away from the New England Patriots , revealing that he was hospitalised for several days after experiencing a series of unexplained neurological symptoms.

The 24-year-old running back issued a statement on Friday, November 6, providing an explanation for an absence that had initially been attributed to an illness.

However, while his medical tests have reportedly delivered reassuring results, Henderson has not received a diagnosis explaining what happened.

That distinction is important because there is currently no confirmed rare disease or specific neurological condition that Henderson has publicly disclosed.

Instead, the Patriots star is still working with medical specialists to understand the cause of his symptoms and make a full recovery.

“Recently, I experienced an unexpected and unusual medical emergency involving a series of unexplained neurological symptoms that required hospitalization for several days. During that time, I underwent extensive medical testing and evaluation. While the results of my comprehensive medical testing have come back positive and reassuring, the cause of this remains unknown and unexplainable,” Henderson said in a statement.

He also explained that the symptoms have affected his ability to perform some basic physical functions, making his return to professional football uncertain.

“I will continue working closely with specialists and physical therapists to focus on my recovery, as these symptoms have affected my strength, coordination, and some of my physical functions. I am committed to doing everything necessary to return to full health.”

Henderson has not provided a timetable for his recovery, and his immediate priority is getting his health back on track rather than preparing for another NFL appearance.

The running back is expected to miss Sunday's meeting with the Green Bay Packers after already sitting out New England's Week 8 victory over the Miami Dolphins .

The Patriots had listed him with an illness, but the details shared on Friday revealed that the situation was considerably more complicated than initially understood.

What is known about Henderson's condition and how it has affected his Patriots career?

Neurological symptoms can involve different parts of the nervous system and may affect movement, strength, coordination and other bodily functions.

However, Henderson's statement does not identify which specific neurological problem he experienced, and there is no publicly confirmed evidence that he is suffering from a particular rare disease.

The uncertainty has also followed reports about the personal difficulties he has faced during the season. ESPN reporter Mike Reiss had previously suggested that Henderson's absence could be connected to the adversity he had experienced, including an ankle injury and a reduced role in head coach Mike Vrabel' s offense.

Those comments prompted speculation about his wellbeing, but they did not establish a medical diagnosis.

Henderson's latest update provides a clearer account of the seriousness of his situation while leaving the underlying cause unanswered. He also stressed that his long-term health must take precedence over his football career.

“My health and long-term well-being remain my foremost priorities,” Henderson added.

The timing is particularly unfortunate for a player who enjoyed an impressive introduction to the NFL. Selected by the Patriots in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, Henderson quickly demonstrated why the organisation viewed him as an important part of its future.

He rushed for 911 yards and nine touchdowns during his rookie campaign, while adding 221 receiving yards and another score. His versatility made him a valuable weapon in the backfield, and he helped New England reach Super Bowl LX.

This season, however, Henderson has found himself sharing opportunities with Rhamondre Stevenson . Through six appearances in 2026, he has recorded 203 rushing yards and one touchdown, alongside 45 receiving yards.

His absence leaves the Patriots without one of their most explosive options, with Stevenson and other running backs expected to shoulder more responsibility.

Away from football, Henderson also credited his wife and Christian faith with helping him through the difficult period. The couple met after Henderson contacted her on TikTok, later becoming engaged before eloping.

“I want to thank my wife for being by my side throughout all of this, and most importantly, I want to thank Jesus for giving me a peace that surpasses all understanding. Despite all of this, my heart rejoices in The Lord and my heart is at peace knowing that He is always faithful and His promise of Romans 8:28 always remain true,” Henderson wrote.

For now, there are more questions than answers surrounding the Patriots running back's condition. Although the initial medical results have been encouraging, the absence of a clear explanation means his recovery remains the priority.

Until specialists establish what caused the symptoms and how best to address them, any prediction about when Henderson will return to the field would be premature.