The 2024 NFL offseason was one of major changes for the New England Patriots. It marked the end of an era, as Bill Belichick was relieved of his duties. With a new regime in place, the focus was on finding a new quarterback and upgrading the supporting cast around them. One of the players who will be part of that cast is running back Rhamondre Stevenson.
With Ezekiel Elliott heading back to the Dallas Cowboys this offseason, the New England Patriots backfield is Rhamondre Stevenson’s once again. The team did sign veteran Antonio Gibson in free agency, but the Oklahoma product will be the lead back.
His skill set is perfect to help a young quarterback such as Drake Maye develop. He is not only productive as a runner but is excellent in the passing game as well. Whether it is catching passes out of the backfield or protecting Maye, Rhamondre Stevenson will get the job done.
Heading into the final season on his rookie contract, the New England Patriots want to ensure this partnership continues beyond the 2024 season. According to Rhamondre Stevenson, contract extension talks have been had and should be completed in the near future.
“Right now, I’m trying to get the deal done and get it locked in. We’ll see where that goes. It’s pretty close,” Stevenson said Monday on the first day of the team’s mandatory minicamp.
A fourth-round pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, he has operated as the team’s lead back the last two seasons and performed at a high level. He is the only consistent producer the team has had to rely on offensively the last few years.
Set to earn a base salary of $3.116 million this season, a significant jump in salary is expected. Even with the running back market being suppressed in recent offseasons, he should more than double his base salary on a new contract.
“It’s not frustrating, but it’s just a long process. This is my first time going through it, but just hearing from all the other guys, this is how it goes. It’s a negotiation process, and I’m respecting the process,” he said, adding that some free agent deals at the position might have strengthened his case.
“It’s hard not to think about it. This is our career, our life and our future. But just staying disciplined and coming out here and working every day; as long as you do that, everything else should come with it.”
Last season, Rhamondre Stevenson had his campaign cut short by a high ankle sprain suffered in Week 13. Already out of playoff contention, the New England Patriots didn’t rush him back; losing games benefitted them more to improve their draft position.
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