Former All-Pro Predicts Big Season For Patriots’ Rhamondre Stevenson

When it comes to playing running back in the NFL, Maurice Jones-Drew knows a thing or two, because he’s seen a thing or two. He spent nine years in the league, eight with the Jacksonville Jaguars, where established himself as an All-Pro with three Pro Bowl selections. So his take on New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson is worth consideration.

On Tuesday, Jones-Drew ranked all 32 starting running backs in the NFL. He pegged Stevenson at No. 18 overall.

“Stevenson is now two seasons removed from his 1,000-yard rushing campaign and faces immense pressure as the lead back with second-round rookie TreVeyon Henderson joining New England’s backfield,” Jones-Drew wrote.

“The rookie will see a fair amount of touches, but I do believe the Stevenson will get the bulk of the carries — at least this season — as he is set up to rebound in 2025 with the Patriots bulking up their offensive line with proven veterans and No. 4 overall pick Will Campbell,” Jones-Drew concluded.

The 27-year-old Stevenson is entering his fifth season with the Patriots. New England selected him in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Oklahoma. Stevenson ran for a career-best seven touchdowns last season. But he also committed a personal-worst seven fumbles and saw his playing time split with backup Antonio Gibson.

Before last season, Stevenson signed a four-year, $36 million contract extension which includes $17 million guaranteed.

Last month, Stevenson drew rave reviews at mandatory minicamp for looking noticeably slimmer compared to last season.

Stevenson and the Patriots return to Gillette Stadium in Foxboro, Mass. and report for training camp on July 22, with the first full-squad workout slated for the next day.