The New England Patriots are sitting pretty atop the AFC East for the first time in nearly four years, but there's a looming question that could define their season: Is their running game holding them back? Despite a promising start, the Patriots' ground attack ranks a disappointing 26th in the league, putting extra pressure on sophomore quarterback Drake Maye. And this is the part most people miss: even with a top-10 offensive line, the running back duo of TreVeyon Henderson and Rhamondre Stevenson hasn't lived up to expectations. Stevenson's fumbling issues persist, while Henderson's rookie campaign has been underwhelming, with both players ranking in the bottom quartile for rush yards over expected. But here's where it gets controversial: with the trade deadline approaching, rumors are swirling that the Patriots might be in the market for a new running back. Is this a panic move, or a necessary adjustment for a team with Super Bowl aspirations?
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler has hinted that the Patriots are indeed exploring options, and with a league-leading $54.7 million in cap space, they have the resources to make a splash. However, the running back market isn’t exactly brimming with obvious upgrades. Breece Hall, one of the top trade chips, is unlikely to stay within the AFC East, and Alvin Kamara, despite his talent, has hinted at retirement if traded out of New Orleans. Meanwhile, the Titans' Tony Pollard and the Browns' Jerome Ford are names to watch, though neither seems like a clear improvement over the Patriots' current tandem. Stevenson's contract, which runs through 2028 with a $3.25 million guarantee in 2026, adds another layer of complexity to any potential move. Are the Patriots overreacting to early-season struggles, or is this a calculated risk to bolster their playoff chances?
What’s undeniable is that the Patriots have time to evaluate their options, with the trade deadline set for November 4. But the question remains: Do they need a new running back, or can they fix their ground game from within? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—is a trade the right move, or should the Patriots stick with their current roster? The Chargers and Chiefs are also rumored to be in the running back market, so the competition for talent could be fierce. One thing’s for sure: the Patriots' next move could shape not just their season, but their future.
