Rhamondre Stevenson has been the New England Patriots’ starting running back since the 2022 season, but the emergence of dynamic rookie TreyVeyon Henderson, and the team entering a critical late-season stretch following their bye, could mean a changing of the guard is coming. New England sits at 11-2 and firmly in the AFC playoff race, meaning every roster decision from here on out carries real postseason implications. And right now, one player is clearly outproducing the other.
Stevenson, 27, has been a reliable piece of the puzzle, with his best season coming in 2022 when he started in 14 of the Patriots’ 17 games and totaled 1,040 yards and five touchdowns. That year, he looked like the next long-term franchise running back. However, since then, defenses have found ways to contain the former Oklahoma standout. His yards per carry have decreased every season, and ball security has been an ongoing issue with 15 fumbles since becoming a full-time starter, including three already this season. For a team preaching discipline and efficiency on offense, those giveaways are becoming increasingly difficult to justify.
When the Patriots come out of their bye week to face the Buffalo Bills on December 14th, the team should consider shifting Stevenson into the team’s running back 2 role in favor of TreVeyon Henderson.
Stevenson Must be Moved to Reserve RB Role Behind Henderson
After barely being a factor over the first seven weeks of the season, Henderson has emerged as a legitimate difference-maker on offense. He has received 10+ carries in every game since and has logged four games of 4+ targets in the passing game, showcasing his value as a dynamic dual-threat back. Over these six games, Henderson has produced 472 rushing yards (5.8 AVG) and 100 receiving yards (5.7 AVG). His ability to turn simple touches into chunk gains gives the Patriots an element their offense has been missing. As a result of his efforts, Henderson was honored for his productive November by being named the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Month.
The ground game is an essential part of the New England Patriots' offense, as the season progresses and the Massachusetts winter sets in. Cold-weather football in Foxborough often means a heavier emphasis on the run game, ball control, and time of possession. To keep opposing defenses guessing and maintain offensive balance, New England will need an efficient and explosive rushing attack. Fortunately for New England, they have two reliable running backs who can rotate, stay fresh, and complement one another. Stevenson still brings value as a power runner, while Henderson offers home-run potential and versatility as a pass-catcher.
Still, the answer is clear: The 11-2 New England Patriots need to put their best players on the field to keep winning, and TreVeyon Henderson has earned more opportunities. His play has elevated the offense and brought a spark that was missing early in the season. As New England prepares for a playoff push, Henderson deserves a larger role even if it comes at the expense of former starter Rhamondre Stevenson.