Rhamondre Stevenson would face a juicy matchup if he suited up for the New England Patriots’ Week 7 game against the Jacksonville Jaguars. But will Stevenson be available after sitting in Week 6 due to an injury?
Let’s go over everything we know about Stevenson’s status after watching Thursday’s Patriots practice.
Latest Rhamondre Stevenson Injury News
Stevenson injured his foot late in New England’s Week 5 loss to the Miami Dolphins. The star running back returned after a brief exit and downplayed the injury afterward, but he missed every practice last week before being ruled out in the final injury report.
Stevenson missed the first two practices of this week, fueling doubt about his status for Sunday’s game. But he was back on the field Friday in London, and after practice offered a positive update on his progress.
“I’m feeling good right now,” he told reporters. “Had to take a couple days off, but I’m feeling like I should be ready to play on Sunday.”
Rhamondre Stevenson: Feel like I should be ready to play Sunday. pic.twitter.com/weBbkMSWGg
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) October 18, 2024
Before practice, Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo said Stevenson would be a game-time decision. And, considering Stevenson’s poorly aged optimism after suffering the injury, fantasy managers should take his Friday remarks with a grain of salt.
Veteran Antonio Gibson would be in line for another start if Stevenson is forced to sit against the Jaguars. JaMycal Hasty sits at the bottom of New England’s running back depth chart, with Kevin Harris and Terrell Jennings offering depth on the practice squad.
Fantasy Impact of Stevenson’s Foot Injury
Despite his early-season fumbling issues, Stevenson would be a must-start if he plays against the Jaguars, who struggle against the run. Stevenson topped 80 yards, including a 120-yard effort, while scoring one touchdown in three of the Patriots’ first five games.
Gibson would be a solid fantasy option if Stevenson sits. The shifty back arguably has outplayed Stevenson this season — according to some metrics, anyway — and is the more natural pass catcher.
And with New England trying to avoid putting too much on Drake Maye’s shoulders, they could emphasize the run for as long as the game allows. Maye also could look for check-down passes if New England’s offensive line struggles against Jacksonville’s front seven.
Stevenson would be a fine RB2 play, whereas Gibson would be a great Flex start or an RB2 option if you’re in a pinch. As bad as New England’s offense is, you should look to capitalize on a matchup with Jacksonville’s defense.
