Rhamondre Stevenson is facing scrutiny after developing a troubling trend this season: he has fumbled in each of the first three games. While the New England Patriots managed to recover the ball in the first two matchups, the New York Jets capitalized on his mistake during last Thursday’s game, leading to heightened concerns about his ball security.
In response to inquiries about his fumbling issues following the game, Stevenson offered a straightforward acknowledgment of the situation, stating, “I gotta hold the ball.”
Ahead of their Week 4 clash against the San Francisco 49ers, quarterback Jacoby Brissett expressed unwavering support for Stevenson. “He’s one of the best running backs in the league. I mean, I’m not too worried about that,” Brissett stated, emphasizing his confidence in Stevenson’s abilities despite the recent setbacks.
Head coach Jerod Mayo echoed this sentiment, addressing the importance of ball security within the team. “Look, we always say that ball security is job security,” Mayo explained. He acknowledged the disappointment surrounding the three fumbles but noted that Stevenson understands the gravity of the situation.
To address the issue, Mayo has ensured that Stevenson will face pressure during practice to reinforce the importance of holding onto the football. “It’s definitely a point of emphasis today. We’ll go out there and practice in full pads. Those guys need to be hit,” Mayo said, underscoring the necessity of tackling during training.
Mayo also highlighted the overall depth and readiness of the running back room, noting that players like Antonio Gibson and JaMycal Hasty have been preparing diligently. “We have to take care of the ball,” he stressed, indicating that the entire unit must prioritize ball security.
Given the Patriots’ reliance on their running game, it is crucial for Stevenson to regain his form and confidence. With the spotlight now on him, fans and teammates alike hope he can put these fumbles behind him and contribute significantly moving forward.
