Patriots Face a Setback as Rhamondre Stevenson Misses Practice With Toe Injury Amid Hot Streak

The New England Patriots have emerged as one of the NFL’s most surprising success stories in 2025. After years of post-Brady turbulence, head coach Mike Vrabel has reenergized the franchise, steering his team to a 6–2 record and sole possession of first place in the AFC East. But the team’s surge hit a potential snag this week when one of its key offensive players landed on the injury list.

Running back Rhamondre Stevenson did not practice Wednesday due to a toe injury, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. While the severity of the issue remains unclear, his absence raises questions about his availability for Sunday’s matchup against the Atlanta Falcons. Stevenson has been an integral part of New England’s balanced offense, bringing consistency and physicality to the run game during the team’s five-game winning streak.

The Patriots’ recent success has not gone unnoticed. Even opponents have taken note, with Indianapolis Colts wide receiver Michael Pittman II recently calling New England “a legitimate contender.” That kind of recognition underscores just how far Vrabel’s team has come in a short time — blending hard-nosed defense, disciplined execution, and renewed energy on both sides of the ball.

But Stevenson’s health looms as an important factor in sustaining that rhythm. Without him, the Patriots may have to rely more heavily on committee backs and creative play-calling to maintain offensive efficiency.

1. Injuries and Transactions Reshape a Revitalized Roster

The Patriots’ rise this season has coincided with a wave of roster movement and bold decision-making from Vrabel and the front office. The team made several late deals ahead of the trade deadline, signaling a willingness to adjust on the fly while maintaining its long-term focus. On Tuesday, New England traded safety Kyle Dugger to the Pittsburgh Steelers in exchange for sixth- and seventh-round draft picks. The move surprised many given Dugger’s role in the defense, but it reflects Vrabel’s broader approach: reshaping the team to fit a younger, faster identity built on depth and flexibility. Shortly after, edge rusher Keion White was dealt to the San Francisco 49ers, where he reunites with former Patriots receiver Kendrick Bourne and fills in for injured star Nick Bosa. Not all the personnel news in Foxborough was about departures. Cornerback Marcus Jones signed a three-year extension earlier this week, a move that stabilizes the secondary and preserves one of the NFL’s most dynamic special teams contributors. His versatility has become a hallmark of the Vrabel-era Patriots, echoing the adaptable, all-in mentality that once defined New England’s dynasty years. For now, the Patriots are managing the balance between short-term competitiveness and long-term sustainability — an approach that has kept them steady even as injuries and trades reshape their depth chart.

2. Stevenson’s Role and Vrabel’s Tough-Love Coaching

Stevenson’s injury comes at a crucial time for both player and team. The third-year back has rushed 83 times for 279 yards and three touchdowns through eight games, shouldering the bulk of the workload behind an evolving offensive line. His ability to break tackles and extend drives has provided stability in close contests — a quality that has been key to the Patriots’ five-game run. However, Stevenson’s performance in last week’s 32–13 win over the Cleveland Browns was muted, with just 34 yards on 14 carries. Vrabel, who has been both demanding and vocal in his leadership, reportedly admonished the running back for early celebrations during the previous week’s victory over the Tennessee Titans. The exchange highlighted Vrabel’s insistence on discipline and professionalism — values that have quickly redefined the locker room’s tone. If Stevenson is sidelined, New England may turn to a combination of backup runners and situational packages to keep its ground game moving. The Patriots’ offensive design under Vrabel has emphasized adaptability, with frequent use of motion, misdirection, and short passing plays to mitigate personnel absences. Regardless of how long Stevenson is out, his recovery will be monitored closely. With the AFC East race tightening, his availability could prove pivotal in keeping New England’s balanced attack intact down the stretch.

3. Looking Ahead

The Patriots enter Week 9 with both momentum and uncertainty. At 6–2, they control their division and have rediscovered a defensive identity reminiscent of their early-2000s grit. But the coming weeks will test their depth and resilience — particularly if Stevenson’s injury lingers. The next stretch of games will reveal whether New England can sustain its rhythm without one of its most consistent playmakers. If the team continues to play complementary football, emphasizing situational awareness and physical defense, it could solidify its status as a true AFC contender heading into the second half of the season. Vrabel’s first year in New England has already surpassed many expectations, reviving the “Patriot Way” through accountability and relentless preparation. How his team manages this latest challenge will reveal whether their resurgence has staying power. Rhamondre Stevenson’s toe injury threatens to interrupt the Patriots’ midseason surge, but under Mike Vrabel’s disciplined leadership, New England appears well-equipped to adapt and keep its winning momentum alive.