Patriots camp battles: Can’t come up short at running back in 2024
How will the Patriots running back room round out in 2024?
Between Rhamondre Stevenson and Antonio Gibson, the top of the Patriots running back depth chart is set. But even from a realistically optimistic outlook, it takes more than two players to get through a season at a position as physically demanding and injury-prone as running back.
The Patriots have been tested in this regard in recent years. There have been times over the last two seasons when they’ve only had one healthy running back dressed during a game, and last year only seven teams consolidated their carries to their top two backs more than the Patriots. So while depth at running back may not be the most eye-popping topic, the outcome of the battle for the spot behind Stevenson and Gibson most likely will matter at some point.
The importance is only heightened this year with the new coaching staff – under new offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt the Browns were the second-most run-heavy team in the NFL behind only the Baltimore Ravens. If/when there’s a rookie quarterback under center, that will only increase the reliance on the run – and the Patriots running back depth.

In past years it’s mainly been Kevin Harris in that third running back role, either from on the active roster or as a practice squad elevation. He’s back to compete again this year, but with a new coaching staff his job could very well be up-for-grabs after he failed to establish himself the last two years (albeit while given limited opportunities).
If the Patriots still want a downhill, physical back like Harris in that role, his main competition will come from UDFAs Deshaun Fenwick and Terrell Jennings. That’s not a certainty though, and the door is also certainly open for veteran JaMycal Hasty, who got plenty of reps this spring after finishing last season on the Patriots’ active roster. Hasty is a faster, quicker back who can also make plays in the passing game and has significant special teams experience.
The running back room could also be a spot where a veteran enters the picture later in training camp – especially if the coaching staff isn’t seeing what it needs to see from the younger depth group. Last year the Patriots took this approach, signing Ezekiel Elliott in August. That was when the team needed a second back, and with this spot being a little further down on the depth chart they may not need a player of that level.
Keep scrolling for more on this year’s Patriots camp battles…