The New England Patriots had a horrendous year in 2023, finishing with the second record in the league and securing the third overall pick in the draft.
Part of the problem for the Patriots was their inability to run the ball consistently. They were 25th in rushing yards per game (95.7) and tied for 26th in rushing touchdowns (nine).
With that, New England did make some changes at running back this offseason, so before training camp begins, let’s familiarize ourselves with the room.
Rhamondre Stevenson
Stevenson returns as New England’s feature back in 2024 after re-signing on a four-year deal worth $36 million.
Since being selected in the fourth round of the 2021 draft out of Oklahoma, Stevenson has proven to be a capable dual threat. However, he’s coming off of a down year, so he’ll need to show out this year to make his new contract worth it.
Antonio Gibson
After four seasons in Washington, New England signed Gibson to a three-year contract this offseason. His usage in Washington dwindled over the last three seasons, but he’ll probably be given some more opportunities with the Patriots, as his versatility should allow him to see the field a lot in a young offense.
JaMycal Hasty
Hasty is entering his second season with New England after being claimed in November. He spent his first two seasons with the San Francisco 49ers and 2022 and part of 2023 with the Jacksonville Jaguars. His roster spot with the Patriots is far from guaranteed, so he’ll need to hold off some of the newcomers.
Kevin Harris
Harris is entering his third season with New England after he was selected in the sixth round of the 2022 draft out of South Carolina.
He hasn’t gotten many opportunities in his two seasons (117 yards and two touchdowns on 34 attempts). With Stevenson and Gibson holding the top two spots, he’ll also be fighting for a depth spot.
Deshaun Fenwick
Fenwick was signed as an undrafted free agent this year out of Oregon State. He rushed for 515 yards and four scores on 5.4 yards per carry while bringing in nine passes for 76 yards and two more touchdowns last season.
With the talent ahead of him, it will be tough for him to make the roster, but it’s not impossible.
Terrell Jennings
Jennings was also signed as an undrafted free agent this offseason out of Florida A&M. In his final collegiate season, he rushed for 673 yards and 10 touchdowns on 5.6 yards per attempt while hauling in seven targets for 60 more yards.
Jennings, like Fenwick, is likely fighting for a depth spot on the roster or a spot on the practice squad.
