The New England Patriots' quest to build a solid supporting cast around blooming quarterback Drake Maye helped them attack the running back position early in the 2025 NFL Draft. After some uneven play from veterans last year, New England picked Ohio State running back TreVeyon Henderson.
Pats fans might need to wait a bit before Henderson is unleashed on the rest of the NFL, as he is one of 30 second-round picks who remain unsigned as they try to earn the same fully guaranteed contracts that Cleveland's Carson Schwesinger and Houston's Jayden Higgins received.
The Patriots are starting training camp fairly soon, which could make for a very awkward situation if Henderson is not in town. However, it could be just what the doctor ordered for veteran Rhamondre Stevenson after a disappointing 2024 campaign.
With Henderson on the sideline as he works through his contract issues, Stevenson will enter camp as the leader in the clubhouse for carries, which could help him extend his flailing career in New England.
Rhamondre Stevenson could benefit from Patriots rookie TreVeyon Henderson's contract squabble
Stevenson's 1,400-yard from scrimmage season in 2022 seems like an eternity ago, as he has not even crossed the 1,000-yard plateau since. While Stevenson has needed to split carries with Antonio Gibson at times, his own sluggish running and fumble problems prompted the Patriots to look for an upgrade.
What Stevenson has on his side is consistency. A powerful runner who has more shiftiness than most players his size, Stevenson will likely have a role in this offense, irrespective of where Henderson is in his development. What better time to prove yourself than in training camp?
Stevenson may end up taking hold of the lion's share of carries if he impresses Josh McDaniels in Henderson's absence. Though the Patriots seem ready to part ways with Stevenson due to the Henderson pick, a strong start to life under Mike Vrabel could convince a coach who loves strong running games that this 1-2 punch is worth keeping around.
Stevenson has enough gas left in the tank to be a productive fringe starter in the NFL. While the Patriots will eventually move on to Henderson in a more earnest way, Stevenson has a golden opportunity to prove to Vrabel that he would be making a mistake throwing him away.