3 biggest winners and 3 losers from Patriots first wave of free agency

3 winners from the Patriots first wave of free agency signings

Rhamondre Stevenson

With Ezekiel Elliott seemingly heading to a new team and the remaining rostered running backs being too unproven to be Rhamondre Stevenson's immediate backups, it was clear that bringing in another RB was going to be a priority in free agency.

It was the perfect year for the Patriots to do that, with some of the best running backs hitting the market for them to potentially sign. Despite the belief they might make a big move to bring one of them to town, they chose to sign former Commanders running back Antonio Gibson instead, who feels like a better fit than most want to give him credit for.

Gibson flew under the radar because he was part of a free agent class consisting of Saquon Barkley, Derrick Henry, and Josh Jacobs, all of whom would have been warmly welcomed to Foxboro had they signed there. So, his signing was met with conflicted reactions.

However, at just 25 years old and a proven contributor in the run and passing game, his addition is a big win for Stevenson, who has had to do double duty for the last two years.

Gibson's arrival ensures he won't be the only capable pass catcher out of the backfield and allows him to be used in a clearer role, something he has spoken about wanting this offseason.