Jerod Mayo: Rhamdondre Stevenson won't start this week

Patriots coach Jerrod Mayo Benching is considered Ramondre Stevenson for Antonio Gibson after four fumbles from Stevenson in four games. And now Mayo has made his decision.

Stevenson will not start Sunday against the Dolphins.

“I had a conversation with Raymond and he's not going to start this week,” Mayo said on Scott Zolak's latest episode. Patriot All Access. “And I'll be very up front and, you know, very transparent. But he will play. And he realizes that, you know, he has to protect the football going forward. And it's a mindset at this point. It is an awareness at this time. You know, it doesn't really have much to do with strategy or anything like that. It's just knowing, you know, you show as a goal on a week-in and week-out basis that you're going to put the ball on the ground.”

Stevenson gained 267 rushing yards on 65 carries with two touchdowns. He is still part of the team's plans; they are He was given a four-year extension in June.

The current goal is believed to have consequences for him taking a step back and not protecting the ball. While not every fumble can be prevented, defenders have ways to ensure the ball is protected from attack.

As Mayo notes, attacks become more subtle as players develop the habit of keeping the ball on the ground.

Gibson has 29 carries for 155 yards in 2024. He added seven catches for 82 yards.

Sunday's game is very important for the Patriots. Miami and New England are both 1-3, and the Dolphins are currently undefended.