The jury was very much out on Rhamondre Stevenson last week after a poor rushing performance against the Raiders in Week 1. After an offensive performance that saw the New England Patriots score just 13 points and Stevenson gain 15 rushing yards from seven carries, the feeling was understandable.
Against a Miami defensive line that featured a group of proven edge defenders and first-round pick Kenneth Grant on the interior, things didn't seem like they'd improve much.
In contrast to Week 1, Rhamondre looked to be a man possessed, totaling an incredible 142 yards, 88 of which came through the air, a career high. The total also marked him second among all running backs this week, second only to De'Von Achane's 92.
Stevenson had a league-high seven fumbles last year and a career low 3.9 yards per carry. It was believed that with the return of Josh McDaniels and his affinity for power backs, the Oklahoma alum would get back to his best, but his Week 1 performance was disappointing. It was clear his performance may steer his season back on track as far as his confidence goes.
Drake Maye steps up to avoid the pressure and delivers a dime to Rhamondre Stevenson for 56 yards on 3rd down! 🔥🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/Sb4PDU6Nl5
— Im not a fan of your favorite team (@fsh733) September 14, 2025
Rhamondre Stevenson comeback performance proves he has his confidence back
The former Sooner talked about the game and the adversity he's faced the past few months, saying, “It feels great… Been tough on me for the last couple of months. Just putting my best foot forward and just knowing what my Pops would want me to do. He probably would’ve loved this game.” His father, Robert, died at age 54 back in March.
Between a disappointing 2024 and the loss of his father, Stevenson had every excuse not to show up the way he did against the Dolphins, but like he did in his first few seasons, he was a key fixture of the offense.
His receiving ability showed: while not a traditional third-down back, he still had 38 catches per season going into this year. More importantly, his yards per carry increased from 2.1 to nearly five, a dramatic uptick in efficiency. If the Patriots are to truly get back to their booming offenses of old, they'll need a run game to supplement Drake Maye, something they didn't have last week.
If Stevenson can continue his efficient ways, the Patriots may have turned a leaf after their dismal Week 1 outing. If the offense can consistently score in the high-twenties to low-thirties, it will be because Stevenson and company are matching Maye's air production with a powerful ground attack.