Stevenson Out, Patriots Adjust Backfield

Patriots coach Mike Vrabel announced that RB Rhamondre Stevenson will miss Sunday’s game vs. the Falcons with a toe injury, marking his first missed game of the season. Stevenson leads New England with 83 carries for 279 yards and three touchdowns but has had recent fumbles, raising questions about New England’s backfield. Rookie TreVeyon Henderson is expected to see an expanded role, with Terrell Jennings elevated as the primary backup and D’Ernest Johnson, Jonathan Ward and Rushawn Baker available on the practice squad as potential game-day additions. For Atlanta, wide receiver Drake London was upgraded to full participation and quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is expected to take the majority of practice reps this week. These moves shift expected playing time for Patriots rushers and may affect New England’s roster plans and fantasy outlook ahead of the trade deadline.