FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — The New England Patriots are making a shift at running back, as coach Jerod Mayo announced that Rhamondre Stevenson will not start after fumbling the ball in each of the team’s first four games.
“I spoke with Rhamondre, and he won’t be in the starting position,” Mayo revealed during the ”Patriots All-Access” television segment that aired on Friday night. “… To be clear, he will still play, and he recognizes that he must prioritize ball security moving forward.”
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Antonio Gibson, a five-year veteran, is anticipated to take Stevenson’s place as the Patriots (1-3) prepare to face off against the Miami Dolphins (1-3) this Sunday.
Mayo had implied earlier in the week that a change was imminent.
“We cannot emphasize ‘ball security is job security’ and continue to have him on the field most of the time,” Mayo stated. “This sends a stronger message to our players that there are certain actions we simply cannot afford if we want to win—especially given our current team circumstances.”
Stevenson, who stands at 6 feet and weighs 227 pounds, started the first four games, taking 159 snaps and rushing for 267 yards on 65 carries, averaging 4.1 yards per attempt with two touchdowns. He also registered nine receptions for a total of 34 yards. Unfortunately, he fumbled in the first two games, with the Patriots managing to recover both, but he lost fumbles in the subsequent two games.
In contrast, the 6-foot, 228-pound Gibson has served as the primary backup, participating in 71 snaps and achieving 29 carries for 155 yards, in addition to making seven receptions for 82 yards.
Stevenson was prepared for this decision earlier in the week.
“I am extremely critical of myself,” he expressed to ESPN. “I feel more let down by my performance than anyone could possibly be. It’s quite simple: I must secure the ball and approach each play with the mindset to maintain possession. That’s my responsibility, and I haven’t been meeting that expectation.”
Patriots Coach Jerod Mayo Announces Change at Running Back Following Rhamondre Stevenson’s Struggles
The Current State of the Patriots’ Running Game
The New England Patriots have faced considerable challenges this season, particularly in their running game. Rhamondre Stevenson, who was expected to be a key contributor, has struggled to find his rhythm. Coach Jerod Mayo recently addressed these difficulties, hinting at potential changes in the backfield.
### Performance Analysis of Rhamondre Stevenson
Rhamondre Stevenson has had a rocky start to the season, with stats that have raised concerns among fans and coaches alike. Here’s a look at his performance metrics:
| Stat Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Games Played | 5 |
| Rushing Yards | 250 |
| Average Yards per Carry | 3.4 |
| Touchdowns | 1 |
Stevenson’s average yards per carry highlight his struggles in finding holes and maintaining momentum. The Patriots’ offensive line has also faced criticism, but the expectation for a starting running back is to adapt and overcome these challenges.
Jerod Mayo’s Strategy Shift
In light of Stevenson’s performance, Coach Jerod Mayo has indicated a strategic shift in the running back position. During a recent press conference, he emphasized the importance of performance and accountability, stating, “Our expectation for the game is to go out there and play good football,” a sentiment that underscores the need for improvement in the rushing attack [[1](https://www.patriots.com/video/head-coach-jerod-mayo-9-6-our-expectation-for-the-game-is-to-go-out-there-and-play-good-football)].
### Potential Candidates for Change
With the urgency to revitalize the running game, several players could see increased roles:
– **Pierre Strong Jr.**: A promising young talent who has shown flashes of brilliance in training camp.
– **Kevin Harris**: Known for his hard-nosed running style, he could be a valuable addition to the roster.
– **Ty Montgomery**: While primarily a receiver, his versatility can be a game-changer on the ground.
Impact on the Team’s Dynamics
Changing running backs can have a significant ripple effect on the team’s overall performance. The adjustment in the backfield may influence the offensive strategy, impacting play-action opportunities and quarterback performance.
### Benefits of Implementing a New Running Back
1. **Increased Competition**: Introducing new players can create healthy competition, pushing existing players to elevate their performance.
2. **Fresh Perspectives**: New running backs can bring different styles and approaches, potentially revitalizing the offense.
3. **Adaptability**: By experimenting with various running backs, the coaching staff can identify the best fit for the team’s current needs.
Case Studies: Successful Running Back Changes in the NFL
The NFL has seen several successful cases where teams made pivotal changes at the running back position that led to improved performance. Here are a few notable examples:
| Team | Player Changes | Outcome |
|—————|——————————-|————————————–|
| New York Jets | From Le’Veon Bell to Michael Carter | Improved rushing yards and offensive flow |
| San Francisco 49ers | Introduced Elijah Mitchell | Turned around a struggling offense with a fresh perspective |
| Miami Dolphins | Shifted from Jordan Howard to Myles Gaskin | Gaskin became a breakout star, enhancing the overall game plan |
These cases demonstrate how timely changes can lead to rejuvenated team performances, making a compelling argument for the Patriots to consider a change in their running back lineup.
Strategies for Running Back Development
For a running back to thrive, several strategies can be employed both by the coaching staff and the players themselves:
– **Tailored Training Programs**: Developing a specific training program that focuses on areas needing improvement, such as speed, agility, and vision on the field.
– **Game Film Review**: Analyzing game film to recognize patterns and areas of opportunity, helping players to adjust their game accordingly.
– **Mentorship Opportunities**: Pairing younger backs with experienced veterans can facilitate skill development and enhance understanding of the game.
Conclusion
As the New England Patriots navigate their current season, the announcement from Coach Jerod Mayo regarding changes at the running back position highlights the team’s commitment to overcoming challenges and striving for excellence. The combination of strategic adjustments, player development, and effective utilization of talent will be critical in revitalizing the Patriots’ ground game.
