Former New England Patriots running backs coach Ivan Fears issued a challenge to running back Rhamondre Stevenson during a podcast earlier this week.
Stevenson had a solid season in 2022. He recorded 1,040 yards on 210 carries with five touchdowns. So far, he has had a productive career for New England overall. He has 1,646 yards and 10 touchdowns in two seasons of play.
However, Fears wants to see Stevenson in an even bigger role as a leader. The coach gave Stevenson criticism as a rookie, and he was able to answer the call.
Now, he will have to become the face of a running back room that features a newcomer in James Robinson and second-year players in Pierre Strong and Kevin Harris. Fears wants Stevenson to take charge, as transcribed by NESN.com’s Dakota Randall.
“The kid has worked hard to do the things we’ve asked him to do,” Fears said, when appearing on WEEI’s “6 Rings” podcast. “To learn, and to prepare, and to train. He’s gotta continue in that mode, because, right now, he’s about to become a leader. He’s the veteran guy in the room. It’s one thing to say you’re gonna lead on Sunday. But, if you’re gonna be successful, you’ve gotta lead every day of the week. And he’s gotta step up in that area. He’s gotta step up to being there when they need him Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday.”
A successful rushing attack will be key to a Patriots offense looking to rebound from a difficult 2022 season.
Stevenson has shown he can be a productive player when given the chance. Now, it’s about taking lessons he learned from his first two seasons and applying them. The Patriots will need him to play at a high level, as they look to make noise in 2023.
