Rhamondre Stevenson

ESPN’s Mike Reiss believes the Patriots will target a pass-catching RB in this year’s draft.

Rhamondre Stevenson has 154 career receptions to his name, while Antonio Gibson, who remains on the roster, has 195 catches of his own. That said, head coach Mike Vrabel said adding a “young runner is potentially something we would like to do” when asked about addressing the position in this year’s draft, and Reiss believes a pass-catching back could be the focus for offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels. Stevenson struggled last season after signing a four-year, $36 million deal, and while he’s expected to be the lead back for 2025, it’s fair to say the 27-year-old back doesn’t look like the same player who totaled 1,461 yards from scrimmage and six touchdowns in 2022. In a class that is rich with running back talent, a more explosive back who could provide more upside in the passing game could help an offense that’s hoping to improve on its 30th-ranked finish last season.