New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel indicated that the team is considering drafting a running back. That said, the coach still has faith in veteran Rhamondre Stevenson heading into the 2025 season.
Stevenson recorded 801 rushing yards and seven touchdowns last season. He also recorded 33 catches for 168 yards and a touchdown on the year. The running back showcased his dual-threat ability throughout the 2024 season.
Nevertheless, Stevenson had ball security issues and fumbled seven times. It isn't necessarily about outright replacing him as a starter, but the Patriots do need to generate better talent in the pipeline if they're forced to turn to another option at some point.
"I think so, having a good young runner, that’s potentially something we would like to do," Vrabel said at the NFL Annual Meeting, via Patriots.com's Evan Lazar. "...People talk about Rhamondre and putting the ball on the ground and he knows that, we’ll help him there and also we’re gonna make sure the other 10 players know their job is to protect the guy with the ball."
The Patriots' running back position is certainly one that should be addressed, given the lack of depth behind Stevenson. As of right now, the only other options are Antonio Gibson and Terrell Jennings.
They clearly need help at that position.
This article originally appeared on Patriots Wire: Patriots could be looking to add competition for $36 million RB