Former Razorback Henry Reflects on Long Path to Super Bowl with Patriots

New England tight end Hunter Henry says he appreciates the long NFL journey as he prepares for first Super Bowl appearance.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:55pm

New England Patriots tight end Hunter Henry, a former standout for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks, is preparing for his first Super Bowl appearance. Henry said the moment has brought perspective after a decade in the NFL, with ups and downs, injuries, and roster changes along the way. He noted that his time at Arkansas helped prepare him for the realities of professional football, including the importance of patience and resilience. Henry's Super Bowl journey also includes another former Razorback, defensive lineman Eric Gregory, who is also on the Patriots' roster.

Why it matters

Henry's path to the Super Bowl highlights the challenges and perseverance required to make it in the NFL, even for talented college players. His story resonates with fans who have followed his career from his days as a Razorback to his current status as a key contributor for the Patriots. The inclusion of another former Arkansas player, Gregory, on the Patriots' Super Bowl roster further underscores the program's ability to develop NFL-caliber talent.

The details

Henry entered the NFL as a second-round draft pick in 2016 and has spent 10 seasons navigating injuries, roster changes and postseason disappointments. Despite consistent production throughout his career, a Super Bowl appearance had eluded him until this season. The Patriots' current playoff run has also included another former Razorbacks player, defensive lineman Eric Gregory, who is part of New England's Super Bowl roster.

  • Henry was a standout player for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks.
  • Henry was drafted by the New England Patriots in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft.
  • Henry is preparing for his first Super Bowl appearance with the Patriots in Super Bowl LX.

The players

Hunter Henry

A veteran tight end for the New England Patriots who played college football at the University of Arkansas.

Eric Gregory

A defensive lineman for the New England Patriots who also played college football at the University of Arkansas.

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What they’re saying

“I've got tremendous appreciation for this whole path. The ups and downs, the teammates, the coaches — you don't get here without all of it.”

— Hunter Henry, New England Patriots Tight End

What’s next

The Patriots will face the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LX on February 11, 2026.

The takeaway

Hunter Henry's journey to the Super Bowl with the Patriots is a testament to the perseverance and resilience required to succeed in the NFL, even for talented college players. His story, and the inclusion of another former Razorback on the Patriots' roster, highlights the ability of the University of Arkansas program to develop NFL-caliber talent.