One of the most impressive feats during the Patriots’ incredible run of success this century was becoming an unmatchable dynasty without a consistently outstanding running game. Corey Dillon set the standard with 1,635 rushing yards in 2004, and 37 rushing TDs from 2004-2006, but it would take another decade to see regularly impressive production from the Patriots’ RB corps.
Sure, BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Stevan Ridley teased with 1,000-yard rushing campaigns. LeGarrette Blount did rush for 1,161 yards and an NFL-high 18 TDs in 2016, and he has certainly made significant contributions in the postseason. But he was gone to Philadelphia after his best year with the Pats.
Heading into 2022, though, the Patriots have not one, but two promising running backs anchoring the backfield, and they may continue to function as a centerpiece of the offense in the post-Brady era.
The Patriots Running Backs Are Ready To Spur A Rise
Double Support For Mac Jones
Mac Jones certainly had an impressive rookie season, leading the Patriots to 10 wins while finishing second in the voting for Offensive Rookie of the Year behind Ja’Marr Chase. Jones looked savvy and poised for a 23-year-old, and that was without any pass-catchers of note.
Jones was helped by the NFL’s No. 8 rushing attack, which certainly eased pressure on him and bolstered the offense overall. Having the support of a strong running game can certainly boost the outlook of any young QB. Passers such as Justin Herbert, Dak Prescott and Russell Wilson all benefited from playing with top RBs early in their careers.
Jones had a dual backfield of impressive young runners. Damien Harris became a major source of TD production in his second pro season, and Rhamondre Stevenson generated much excitement when he showed off his best form. These two runners could be pairing with Jones for some time to come, as the Patriots attempt to ultimately take back the AFC East from the Bills over the next few years.
Hammering the Opposition
Harris and Stevenson combined for over 1.500 rushing yards and 20 TDs in 2021. New England led the AFC with 24 rushing TDs. If Harris did not miss two games, he would have rushed for 1,000 yards. His 15 rushing TDs were second in franchise history to Blount’s 18.
Harris had five 100-yard outings, including two in December. Stevenson averaged 4.6 yards per carry and rushed for 107 yards on 19 carries with two TDs in Week 17. By the end of the regular season, Harris and Stevenson established themselves as a formidable pairing that could pound defenses throughout a game.
Utilizing both running backs keeps them fresh, and lowers the possibility of either being overworked or injured. Harris has good vision and is a classic inside runner, while Stevenson has nifty speed for a bigger back and can be the better pass-catcher of the two.
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Looking To the Future With The Patriots Running Backs
Harris may continue to be the lead RB for New England next season, but Stevenson will also be a very important cog in the machine. He caught four passes for 33 yards in the AFC Wild Card Game and he could see an expanded role as a receiver out of the backfield in 2022.
How much Stevenson will be used may depend on whether the Patriots bring back longtime signature receiving back James White, or sign another pass-catching specialist. Even if White is retained or replaced, though, Stevenson is capable of catching passes when he is on the field. If Stevenson is more of a dual threat next season, he can only make the RB crew more diverse and balanced.
Brandon Bolden is also a free agent, and if he is brought back, he will continue to provide high-quality depth and operate as the usual special teams star. New England will also likely look to improve the pass-catching corps at wide receiver, further strengthening the offense.
Harris and Stevenson should remain focal points of the offense as it improves. What should be considered is that Harris will be a free agent after the 2022 season. He could be highly motivated to prove himself more in a contract season. The Patriots do have the luxury of considering Stevenson as their feature back if Harris is somehow not with the team in 2023.
The likely outlook, however, is that Harris and Stevenson will be a formidable duo in 2022 as this newer version of the Patriots tends to lean on their young runners to be a focal point of the offense. Many NFL teams have veered away from depending on one featured RB, and New England now has a pair of RBs who can very effectively function as a key part of the offensive game plan.
The Patriots found a sturdy new running game in 2021. You can expect them to stick with what worked well in 2022, and possibly beyond. This era of Patriots football may not feature a high-flying offense or air game to rival the Chiefs or Bills, but there are other ways to win, as we have seen over the years with Bill Belichick-led teams. Harris and Stevenson will be keys to the New England model of victory going forward.
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