The New England Patriots was one of several teams that opened up OTAs earlier this week, but they were missing one of their key veterans. However, the Pats received great news regarding that vet on Thursday.
According to ESPN’s Mike Reiss, veteran running back Rhamondre Stevenson was at the voluntary team activity after head coach Mike Vrabel told reporters on Tuesday that Stevenson was out with a personal matter.
Stevenson has been grieving the loss of his father, who passed away this spring. When Vrabel spoke with reporters earlier this week, he said that the veteran running back will play a large part in what they do on offense.
It’s good to see Stevenson back at the practice facility, as Reiss said that the veteran’s presence “uplifted many in the building.”
The 27-year-old running back has a chance to take New England’s ground game to another level, especially with the addition of rookie TreVeyon Henderson, who brings a speed element and pass-catching element to the backfield.
Last season, Stevenson got work on the ground and in the passing game, compiling 969 yards from scrimmage and eight total touchdowns on 240 touches. However, the veteran running back struggled with holding onto the football, as he had seven fumbles (career-high).
Stevenson will have to lessen those mistakes this upcoming season, especially under this new regime. Even though Vrabel said he’s part of what they will be doing on offense, he could easily lose snaps to Henderson if the rookie plays well.
That said, Patriots fans shouldn’t have to worry about those concerns as Stevenson has proven to be one of the better running backs in the league over the last few years. New England’s brass is excited to see him back in the building and hopes he can get them back on track after a down 2024 season.