3 surprise players could end up on the trade block for Patriots

Perhaps the most surprising potential trade candidate, Rhamondre Stevenson, has long been viewed as one of the more talented offensive players on the Patriots’ roster.

However, with Josh McDaniels returning as offensive coordinator, the Patriots may look for a different type of running back—one who offers more consistency, ball security and versatility in the passing game.

At 27 years old and coming off one of his worst seasons, Stevenson’s role as the lead back may not be as secure as some assume. After signing a four-year, $32 million extension, the Patriots have to ask themselves whether he is worth that investment, especially when they need to surround Drake Maye with as many dynamic weapons as possible.

Stevenson had seven fumbles last season, struggled in pass protection and wasn’t a major factor in the passing game, all of which raise concerns about his long-term fit.

Look around the league, and most playoff teams have a true three-down back who can impact both the run and pass game. Whether it’s Christian McCaffrey, Alvin Kamara, Saquon Barkley, Josh Jacobs, James Cook or Austin Ekeler, teams are increasingly looking for versatile backs who can keep defenses honest on all three downs. Stevenson hasn’t shown enough as a pass-catcher or pass-blocker to be that guy for Drake Maye.

Enter the Las Vegas Raiders, a team that desperately needs a running back after moving on from Jacobs. Stevenson, who grew up in Las Vegas, would be a logical fit for a team that still values power running but needs a starting-caliber back. The fit with new coach Pete Carroll makes sense considering he’s valued hard-nosed running backs in the past, like Seattle’s Marshawn Lynch.

Projected trade return: 2025 fifth or sixth-round pick

This wouldn’t be a high-value return, but it would clear cap space and allow the Patriots to target a younger, more complete back in the draft or free agency. While Antonio Gibson isn’t the long-term answer, either, the Patriots could use him in that role while searching for their future lead back.