Tough personal circumstances for key starter help explain why the Patriots made an underrated but important roster move

The New England Patriots have made some moves at the running back position this offseason, which has brought into question Rhamondre Stevenson's future with the team. 

But, one Patriots insider provided some context on all the signings.

ESPN's Mike Reiss reports that Stevenson's father, Robert, passed away in March at age 54. And the running back was also still mourning the loss of his childhood friend, Brandan Harley, who died last season. 

Because of this, Stevenson has understandably been absent from the team's voluntary offseason program. And Reiss adds that this could have factored into the team's decision to sign veteran Trayveon Williams to a one-year deal. 

Williams was the first running back Zac Taylor helped draft as head coach of the Bengals, but the reasons why he ended up sticking around for six years had little to do with him actually playing the position. Williams contributed plenty on special teams for Cincinnati, especially during the last three years after his rookie contract was initially terminated during the 2021 season. It was the following year in 2022 when Williams got a chance to return kickoffs and held on to the role for most of 2023 after re-upping for another year. 

He re-signed with the Bengals one last time in 2024 and was a staple on punt and kickoff units. Only Akeem Davis-Gaither had more special teams snaps in a Bengals uniform than Williams during the last two seasons

That versatility is most likely what stood out to New England. 

As for Stevenson, he had a rough 2024 campaign, finishing the year with a career-high six fumbles. However, the new coaching staff has expressed faith that he will get back on track. 

But, it's always important to have depth on the roster, especially in the early days. 

Stevenson and Williams are joined by Antonio Gibson and rookie TreVeyon Henderson along with Terrell Jennings and Lan Larison in the running back room.