The New England Patriots are gearing up for the 2025 season with significant expectations fueled by a new coaching staff, second-year quarterback Drake Maye, and a strengthened defense. Among the players drawing attention in the offseason, veteran running back Rhamondre Stevenson has been somewhat overlooked despite his impressive career trajectory.

Drafted in the fourth round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Stevenson has accumulated 3,066 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns over four seasons, complemented by 154 receptions for 950 yards and two receiving touchdowns. His versatility in both running and receiving roles makes him a valuable asset for the Patriots as they aim to rebound this season.

TreVeyon Henderson is emerging as a top sleeper pick for fantasy football in 2025, particularly as he joins the New England Patriots. Drafted in the second round, Henderson has the potential to redefine the Patriots' backfield, especially as Rhamondre Stevenson struggles with injuries and performance consistency. With Stevenson falling short of expectations after a breakout year in 2022, the opportunity for Henderson to take the lead role is ripe.

Henderson's skill set, comparable to that of Jahmyr Gibbs, showcases his dual-threat ability as both a runner and a receiver, making him a valuable asset in PPR formats. As he develops rapport with quarterback Drake Maye, he could become a significant fantasy contributor, particularly in a system that values versatile playmakers. His potential upside makes him a compelling target in upcoming drafts.

Zero RB strategy is gaining traction in fantasy football, with analysts emphasizing the importance of targeting elite wide receivers early in the draft while waiting on running backs. This approach hinges on the unpredictability of the running back position, where even late-round picks can yield significant returns. Some key targets for this strategy in the upcoming drafts include players like Rhamondre Stevenson, known for his pass-catching ability, and Kenneth Gainwell, who could see increased usage in a dynamic offense.

Another name to watch is DeAndre Swift, who, despite past injuries, has the potential to emerge as a top option if he can stay healthy. The strategy also supports selecting high-upside rookies or established players with favorable matchups as the season progresses. By focusing on a robust group of wide receivers coupled with strategic RB picks, fantasy managers can build a competitive roster without relying heavily on running backs early on. This approach is designed to maximize potential and minimize risk, especially in a league where running back performance can vary dramatically.

The NFL offseason brings about significant changes, impacting players’ value in dynasty fantasy football leagues. Players like Rhamondre Stevenson suffered a dip in value with the Patriots drafting TreVeyon Henderson, yet he remains a solid buy-low option due to his existing contract and the likelihood of retaining a steady role. Similarly, Rico Dowdle is now with the Panthers, where he might split time with Chuba Hubbard, but his previous success and the team's strong run-blocking line make him worth consideration. Tank Bigsby from the Jaguars, despite a rocky start, showed improvement last season and could lead the backfield if given the opportunity.

On the receiving end, DJ Moore faces competition and skepticism regarding his role in a revamped Bears offense, yet his consistent production indicates he remains a valuable asset. Jayden Reed, despite being overshadowed by new talent in Green Bay, has shown flashes of potential and could thrive in a passing-heavy game script. Lastly, Isaiah Likely’s stock could rise if Mark Andrews is traded, but for now, he remains a secondary option. These players present prime opportunities for savvy fantasy managers to capitalize on offseason undervaluation.

The New England Patriots have added a promising running back to their roster by drafting TreyVeyon Henderson in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. This pivotal move aims to establish a dynamic backfield alongside Rhamondre Stevenson, creating a dual-threat scenario for the Patriots this season. However, complications have arisen as Henderson has yet to sign his rookie contract, primarily due to disagreements over the guaranteed money, a crucial aspect of negotiations, especially for running backs facing injury risks.

In recent drafts, we have seen a trend towards fully guaranteed contracts, particularly among second-round picks. For instance, the Cleveland Browns and Houston Texans have both set precedents by offering complete guarantees to their selections, indicating a shift in how teams value young talent and manage risk. This evolving landscape places increased pressure on Henderson to secure a favorable deal that aligns with industry standards for rookie contracts.