Antonio Gibson helped lead Washington to the playoffs as a rookie in 2020, then ran for 1,037 yards in his second season. Now, he might be returning to a full-time role in the Patriots’ backfield. Head coach Jerod Mayo said this week he’s considering elevating Gibson above Rhamondre Stevenson on the depth chart.
When New England (1-3) hosts the Dolphins (1-3) on Sunday (1 p.m. ET, FOX), Gibson might make his first start since Dec. 24 with Washington. Stevenson has fumbled in every game this season and five straight dating back to 2023. Only Kansas City’s Carson Steele (7.1 percent) has fumbled more per carry than Stevenson (6.2 percent) in this year. Each of the last two weeks, Stevenson’s fumbles have set up opponent field goals.
While Miami’s defense has only recovered one fumble this year, it was significant. Jevon Holland’s perfectly timed punch on Travis Etienne helped preserve the Dolphins’ only win, in Week 1 against Jacksonville.
The Patriots’ season-opening win at Cincinnati was 27 days ago. It feels like 27 years. After three straight losses, reporters questioned quarterback Jacoby Brissett on dealing with outside and inside distractions calling for Drake Maye to start. But the biggest factor in whether Mayo and the organization makes that call could be the loss of center David Andrews.
Of all the NFL’s season-ending injuries in the first part of 2024, this might be the costliest. An assignment-caller at the line and locker-room leader, Andrews (shoulder) reportedly explored every option to remain on the field but ultimately required surgery.
Mayo said this week he considers the Andrews injury and quarterback decision unrelated, although the center is very important, he added.
Discover more from Pro Football Post
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.