The Patriots handed out contract extensions like crazy over the past few months, and running back Rhamondre Stevenson could be next in line. After a few subpar drafts, New England found a few franchise cornerstones in guys like Kyle Dugger, Christian Barmore, and Michael Onwenu. All three are locked up long-term, and New England could turn to Stevenson next.
A fourth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, Rhamondre Stevenson is entering the final year of his rookie contract. While injuries and poor offensive line play limited him to just 619 yards on 156 attempts last year, he showed what he could do in 2022. Stealing the starting job from Damien Harris, the Oklahoma product recorded 1,040 yards and five touchdowns on 210 attempts, serving as one of the few bright spots in an otherwise putrid offense.
Rhamondre Stevenson recently discussed the idea of a contract extension and the longtime Patriot made it clear that he wants to remain with the franchise.
“I love Boston, I love the Patriots. I love the organization,” Steveson said, via Mark Daniels of MassLive.com. “Yeah, I’d love to be here for countless amount of years…Draft just ended, so I think those talks may or may not ramp up”
Rhamondre Stevenson: Contract Talks “May or May Not Ramp Up”
Rhamondre Stevenson wants to sign a new contract with the Patriots, and the team could feel the same way. Stevenson has been a reliable starter for New England, and the Patriots have an abundance of cap space, even after the Christian Barmore extension. With no heir apparent on the roster, this extension makes sense for both sides.
With that in mind, the Patriots could still not give Rhamondre Stevenson a new contract. Running backs rarely play well on a second deal, as the physical nature of the position takes a heavy toll on the body. Perhaps New England would rather invest in a wide receiver, left tackle, or even the defense. If that happens, these five teams could be interested in Stevenson.
Potential Team Fits
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys current backfield consists of an aging Ezekiel Elliott, Rico Dowdle, and Deuce Vaughn. That’s not good. Elliott played better than his raw numbers imply last year, but the running back is far past his prime. Somebody new must handle starting duties next year, and the Cowboys could sign Rhamondre Stevenson to a decent contract. The physical runner is a perfect fit behind this offensive line and makes plays on all three downs.
Los Angeles Chargers
Jim Harbaugh wants to run the ball early and often, but he’ll have a tough time doing that with his current stable of backs. Gus Edwards is nothing special, and J.K. Dobbins might not be the same following his Achilles injury. Rhamondre Stevenson would be the best running back on this team, and the Chargers should have the money to make a contract work.
New Orleans Saints
Alvin Kamara is getting older, and Jamaal Williams and Kendre Miller left something to be desired last year. With their star running back’s cap hit set to explode, New Orleans could move on and replace Kamara and his massive contract with Rhamondre Stevenson. Stevenson might be a better player regardless, and he’ll probably be cheaper.
Las Vegas Raiders
The Raiders are fearlessly going into the 2024 season with Zamir White, Alexander Mattison, and Dylan Laube as their three running backs. Perhaps White can handle a full season of starting work, but if he can’t, then Vegas could easily sign Rhamondre Stevenson to a new contract in 2025. He and Jakobi Meyers spent years as the heart of New England’s offense, so the current Raider could put in a good word for the running back.
Denver Broncos
Just like Stevenson, Javonte Williams will be a free agent in 2025. Perhaps Denver likes their homegrown talent, but Rhamondre Stevenson has been the better player and will earn a higher contract on the open market. With the underwhelming duo of Samaje Perine and Audric Estime fighting for backup work, Stevenson should provide a much-needed boost to this backfield and provide some stability for Bo Nix.
Main Photo: Brian Fluharty – USA Today Sports
