Patriots rule out key player for Week 6

Aug 10, 2023; Foxborough, Massachusetts, USA; A New England Patriots helmet sits on the sideline during the first half against the Houston Texans at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Eric Canha-USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback Drake Maye and the New England Patriots will be short at least one key player for their Week 6 game against the Houston Texans.

The Patriots ruled running back Rhamondre Stevenson out for Week 6, as he is dealing with a foot injury. Antonio Gibson is likely to get most of the work in Stevenson’s absence.

Rhamondre Stevenson is ruled out for #HOUvsNE.@ezlazar's injury report analysis: https://t.co/n6ZiFUpvS8 pic.twitter.com/5rMIy3evXC

— New England Patriots (@Patriots) October 11, 2024

This is not how the Patriots would have wanted Maye’s career as starter to begin. Stevenson has been the team’s top backfield option for the last three seasons, and was a 1,000-yard rusher in 2022. He was off to a good start in 2024, including an 89-yard performance in Week 5 despite being ostensibly benched for the start of the game.

The Patriots have already confirmed that Maye will get his first start at quarterback in Sunday’s game. Stevenson’s absence will probably make his life a bit more difficult.