It’s evident through their offseason additions that the New England Patriots prioritized upgrading their offense. Last year, the Patriots had one of the worst offenses in the league, ranking 30th in points (17) and last in passing yards (176.2).
The only area they were productive in was rushing, ranking 13th (115.8). Even with Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson both being quality backs, they weren’t efficient running the ball, combining for four yards per carry.
To bolster their rushing attack, the team drafted TreVeyon Henderson in the second round. Henderson was initially perceived to be a backup to Stevenson and Gibson, but throughout training camp and preseason, Henderson has risen in the ranks, displaying his phenomenal skill set as a runner, pass catcher, and pass blocker.
Now, with Henderson outperforming both Stevenson and Gibson, the two veterans are seemingly pushing for the idea of a split backfield.
#Patriots RBs Antonio Gibson and Rhamondre Stevenson like the idea of splitting snaps during the season.
— Carlos A. Lopez (@LosTalksPats) August 19, 2025
Gibson: “I kinda like the split backfield… I have nothing against it. It helps the body.”
Stevenson: “I agree… Anything they want us to do, we’re all willing to do it.” pic.twitter.com/PezzohEyno
Stevenson and Gibson Want a Split Backfield in New England
When asked about the idea of splitting snaps during the season, both Stevenson and Gibson agreed it would be a good idea. It’s great to hear both players are bought in and willing to do what’s best for the team, but it’s coming during Henderson’s emergence.
In the last few weeks, Henderson had a 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, a 70-yard touchdown in the joint practice against the Vikings, and another touchdown in their preseason game last Saturday. While his big-play ability has been impressive, his pass protection may be his best, which ignited a scuffle in the joint practice with the Commanders.
Love TreVeyon Henderson's willingness (and technique!) in pass pro. pic.twitter.com/gPVrWQK0ZK
— Tyler Brooke (@TylerDBrooke) August 20, 2025
Last year, the Patriots struggled with ball security, leading the league in fumbles last season (30). Stevenson and Gibson combined for nine of those fumbles, with Stevenson leading all running backs in fumbles with seven.
Meanwhile, Henderson has been great in this area, only having two fumbles on 667 touches. In almost every aspect, Henderson has proven himself better.
He’s demonstrated his rare skills as a complete back, which makes it hard for the Patriots to take him off the field. At this point, it feels like Stevenson and Gibson are up for the idea of a split backfield because they know Henderson will be given the majority of the reps.
Although having a split backfield would keep the players fresh, having the best back in at all times should be the focus for the Patriots this season.