There was inevitably going to be a hyper focus on the Patriots' offense this offseason, as they had the most cap space to use and prime real estate in the draft to improve their most problematic group beyond adequately. They were able to accomplish that by signing a player like Stefon Diggs and selecting LT Will Campbell, RB TreVeyon Henderson, and WR Kyle Williams in the draft.
They immediately made the offense a group that will boost Drake Maye's performance during a very telling second season, and they are joining a few notable players that will make for some solid complementary duos during the season ahead.
Among the most discussed is the running back room, which is expected to be led by Rhamondre Stevenson. While that is still the projection, Henderson has certainly given him a run for his money through training camp so far, and Stevenson's standing has only worsened after a nightmare showing during the team's practice game last Friday night.
His age-old fumbling issue was on full display again, as he dropped the football after an impressive gain.
And now Rhamondre Stevenson fumbles after picking up a nice gain on an outside zone run. Looked like UDFA corner Brandon Crossley forced the fumble.
— Evan Lazar (@ezlazar) August 1, 2025
It is perhaps the most concerning part of his game throughout his career, which was particularly problematic during the 2024 season, and now has him firmly in the hot seat heading into the third week of training camp.
Rhamondre Stevenson isn't making his road to the Patriots 2025 roster any easier
Stevenson had a lot on his plate going into this offseason because of his failures during the 2024 season, many of which created irreparable damage to the offense and their potential for success during a game.
That meant he needed to clean up his game and get a better hold on the football at all costs, making his fumble in a mock game that much more concerning. Although it wasn't a real game, it's not a great look for a guy who needs to ensure he holds onto the football like his life depends on it, especially not just a week before the first preseason game.
It only makes the idea of Henderson potentially leapfrogging him on the depth chart seem more plausible, which isn't exactly what anyone was expecting, even if the former Ohio State star was known for being explosive.
Stevenson has become a big part of the Patriots' offense since he joined the team in 2021, even booting starting running back Damien Harris down the depth chart as a rookie. He looked like the future of the backfield with his bully ball style of play, but the fumbling issue has become the main talking point whenever he is mentioned.
The fact that he then dropped the ball in the team's first mock game makes it more likely that he will remain in the conversation moving forward.
There is still time for Stevenson to turn things around, and it's hard to imagine he won't make the 2025 roster. But that doesn't mean he will remain the starter if he loses the Patriots' coaches' trust.