Rhamondre Stevenson optimistic about contract talks with Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – New England Patriots running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, said he is engaged in negotiations with the team over an extension that could be nearing its end.

“Right now, I’m trying to get the deal done and lock it in. We’ll see where it goes. It’s pretty tight,” Stevenson said Monday during the first day of the team’s mandatory minicamp.

Stevenson was selected by the Patriots in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft and opened the last two seasons as the team’s top running back. He played in 41 games and totaled 2,265 rushing yards on 499 carries with 14 touchdowns. He also caught 121 passes for 782 yards and a touchdown.

Under a new regime led by executive vice president of player personnel Eliot Wolf and first-year head coach Jerod Mayo, the Patriots have made it a priority to be a “draft and develop” team, and extend Stevenson’s contract would further reflect that.

Stevenson, who is expected to earn a base salary of $3.116 million this season, said the sides have been engaged in talks for an extended period of time.

“It’s not frustrating, but it’s just a long process. It’s the first time I’m experiencing it, but I just hear what all the other guys are saying, that’s how it goes “It’s a negotiation process, and I respect the process,” he said, adding that some free agent deals at the position could have strengthened his case.

“It’s hard not to think about it. It’s our career, our life and our future. But you just have to stay disciplined and come here and work every day; as long as you do that, everything else should come with.”

The 6-foot, 227-pound Stevenson had his 2023 season cut short due to a high ankle sprain in Week 13. The Patriots were eliminated from the playoffs at the time, which may have eased the urgency for Stevenson to return, as the team ultimately finished 4.-13.

In spring practice, Stevenson led a running back team that includes free agent Antonio Gibson, who signed a three-year, $11.25 million contract with the team after spending the first four years of his career with the Washington Commanders.

“I think he’s one of the best backs in the league, there’s no doubt about that,” Mayo said of Stevenson. “I’m excited to see what he does this season, and look, he’s earned everything he gets. He’s our starting running back and I hope we do something.”