It’s no secret that running back Rhamondre Stevenson is going to be the bell cow for the New England Patriots. The organization also added to the position in free agency by signing third-down back Antonio Gibson.
But even with all of that talent in the offensive backfield, an argument could be made that the Patriots still have work to do in rounding out their depth in the running backs room.
Stevenson is undoubtedly productive, but injuries caught up to him last year. His season ended in Week 13 with a high ankle sprain. He also had a concussion and knee injuries in 2021. He is not necessarily an injury-prone player, but his injuries are worth monitoring.
Stevenson played a total of 486 snaps in 2023. That number was considerably down from the 699 snaps he played the year before, when he had a career-high 1,040 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
Stevenson did admit to feeling worn down by the end of the 2022 season, and there was likely carryover into last season as well.
This is where Patriots backup running back Kevin Harris could play a large role in things. He only played 34 snaps at the running back position last season. This could be an opportunity for him to step up. Nevertheless, the uncertainty over whether he can provide consistent production is something to consider.
It’s not as if Gibson can’t take over the role as the No. 2 running back considering he played that role in Washington with the Commanders. He had 473 total snaps to Brian Robinson’s 496. His highest snap count came in Week 3 when he played in 61 percent of the team’s snaps, totaling 33 plays in all.
He had 65 carries for 260 yards and a touchdown last year.
It’s not as if Harris and Gibson aren’t capable of solidifying the running back room. The potential for Harris is certainly there, and Gibson has shown he can be a dependable contributor over multiple years. This is more about the health of Stevenson. An injury to him would be a massive blow to the room.
A back like Kareem Hunt could be a potential option, for example. He is currently a free agent and has ties with offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt from their time in Cleveland together. Hunt was able to serve as a strong No. 2 option behind Nick Chubb during that time. Just last year, he recorded 411 yards and nine touchdowns on 135 carries.
It’s no secret that Van Pelt wants to run the football. It was his calling card during his run in Cleveland. Hunt is used to being a rotational piece, and he could be a viable option for a Patriots offense trying to find its footing.
Adding another veteran running back to the room would be a good move for the team. The Patriots have talent at the position, but health and experience are two of their biggest question marks in 2024.
Boosting that position with some additional help could mitigate risks if catastrophe strikes.
