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Patriots RB Named 'Surprise' Trade Candidate in NFL Offseason

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Miles Houston | Last updated Feb 13, 2025 10:45 AM ET

With the 2024 season over, it’s time for the New England Patriots to turn the page to 2025 and focus on improving their roster heading into the new year. With a lack of talent on the roster, the front office could surprise some Patriots fans this offseason by trading a former 1,000-yard rusher.

In a recent article by Patriots Wire, it was suggested that the Patriots could trade their starting running back, Rhamondre Stevenson, for a Day 3 draft pick.

Stevenson, the team's primary running back since 2022, struggled in a lackluster 2024 campaign for the Patriots, failing to eclipse 1,000 rushing yards for a second straight season.

To add insult to injury, Stevenson also had significant issues with ball security, leading to a career-high seven fumbles in 15 games.

A move like this could make sense for the Patriots. Stevenson's production has declined since 2022, and with him in the middle of a four-year, $32 million extension, a trade to trim the team’s payroll could be in the cards.

Additionally, a trade would allow the Patriots to acquire a more well-rounded running back for franchise quarterback Drake Maye. Stevenson’s deficiencies in the passing game prevent him from being a true playmaker.

Whether a Stevenson trade makes sense or not, the Patriots need to significantly overhaul their talent-starved roster, especially if they want to maximize Maye’s abilities and bring competitive football back to New England.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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