Rhamondre Stevenson has become a significant talking point in fantasy football circles after a mysterious absence that’s left managers hungry for updates. The New England Patriots’ backfield landscape has shifted dramatically in recent weeks, raising plenty of questions about Stevenson’s role moving forward. With a pivotal week ahead and whispers about his readiness swirling, fantasy players are on edge, awaiting clarity.
The impact of his situation could bring major lineup decisions for those chasing playoff glory this season.
Rhamondre Stevenson Injury Update
Stevenson has missed the last three games for the New England Patriots due to a toe injury. His absence has allowed rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson to shine as the lead back in the Patriots’ backfield.
Head coach Mike Vrabel told the media that Stevenson was expected to practice on Wednesday and could make his return in Week 12 against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Expect Stevenson and Henderson to return to a timeshare in the backfield, although Henderson likely earned a larger workload due to his strong play the last three weeks.
— PFSN Fantasy Football Analyst Dan Fornek
Stevenson Fantasy Outlook
Will the toothpaste be put back in the tube?
Stevenson has missed three straight games due to a toe injury. Still, he has been able to practice in a limited capacity, which has the team operating with cautious optimism regarding his status for this weekend.
But is he still the lead running back in New England?
Mike Vrabel was stubborn on his behalf for the first two months of this season. Still, after seeing TreVeyon Henderson flash some of his game-breaking talent (two 55+ yard TD runs in Week 10 against the Bucs being the tip of the iceberg), this is a fluid situation at best.
READ MORE: Soppe’s Week 12 Fantasy Football Start ‘Em Sit ‘Em: Analysis for Every Player in Every Game
Stevenson has averaged under 2.5 yards per carry in three of his past four games and hasn’t earned more than two targets in a game since September. At best, I think we are looking at a committee situation with Henderson holding the edge in the passing game.
Now, this is as good a spot as you could ask for, something that gives me confidence in ranking both as a top 30 option at the position (provided health). That said, I’m skeptical that Stevenson is a plus-asset before New England goes on their bye in Week 14.
After missing extended time, penciling in a ramp-up is reasonable. Coming out of the bye, it seems likely that both of these backs will be at full strength, and that’s when we are going to have to make a real decision. We will address that situation when we get there, but two matchups against potent offenses immediately following the break (vs. BUF, at BAL) have me leaning strongly in the direction of Henderson moving forward.
— PFSN Fantasy Football Analyst Kyle Soppe
