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The Patriots reinforced the running back room in the short term and long term this off-season by signing Antonio Gibson and extending Rhamondre Stevenson.

Gibson signed a one year deal in March and the Patriots extended Stevenson to a four year, $36 million dollar deal in June. The deal locks Stevenson up as the team’s primary running back.

The Patriots running back room also features Kevin Harris, veteran JaMycal Hasty and rookies Terrell Jennings and Deshaun Fenwick. 

Running back coach Taylor Embree has a talented group to work with. 

Under Contract: 

Rhamondre Stevenson 

Antonio Gibson

Kevin Harris 

JaMycal Hasty

Terrell Jennings 

Deshaun Fenwick 

Positional Breakdown:

Rhamondre Stevenson will be expected to be a workhorse, something he has proven in the past that he can do. He is a three down back who excels in pass protection and is effective catching the ball out of the backfield. Staying healthy will be the key for Stevenson. When he’s on the field, he is a top ten running back. 

New offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt will feature Stevenson heavily in what will be a run first offense, especially early on. He is poised for a big season statistically. 

Antonio Gibson will be a good complement to Stevenson as a back up and third down back. Gibson is a former receiver who gives the Patriots some versatility in terms of alignment. 

Gibson was the starter in Washington the past three seasons and was productive. He rushed for 1,037 yards and 7 rushing touchdowns in 2021. At 6’0 228, Gibson is a big back like Stevenson. He can pound the ball inside the tackle and get the edge outside zone and toss plays. His value is as a receiver however and in the west coast offense, he could easily finish with 50 plus catches. He has averaged 43 catches per season in his career. 

The Patriots will also be counting on Kevin Harris to get some touches as well, particularly in short yardage and goal line situations. Harris has been a picture of perseverance. He is always on the fringe of making the team. Expect him to make the final 53 man roster and contribute this season.

Veteran JaMycal Hasty has experience and will certainly push for a roster spot but Hasty will need a good camp and he will also need to prove that he can be a special teams contributor.

Rookies Terrell Jennings and Deshaun Fenwick are also going to be in the mix. Jennings was tabbed for the PUP list. Fenwick is an intriguing back. He doesn’t have a lot of carries on his frame and is capable of being a second back and being in the mix for touches. A good camp puts him squarely in a competition with Harris and possibly the practice squad.