What does Patriots running back and quarterback analysis reveal?
Patriots running back and quarterback analysis is front and center during the 2026 OTA sessions.
Coaches and scouts traced tempo, footwork, and decision making on every snap.
Rhamondre Stevenson flashed reliable contact balance, while Drake Maye showed quicker pre snap reads.
Meanwhile, young runners and rookie quarterbacks battled for reps with energy and intent.
Behren Morton practiced with urgency, but his health creates legitimate questions about availability.
In addition, pass protection and rushing schemes looked cleaner than last year.
However, Maye threw an interception during OTA drills that revealed lingering timing issues.
Therefore, optimism exists, but evaluation must remain measured and evidence based.
Coaches emphasized situational reps and red zone work to sharpen decision making.
As a result, the backfield depth looks promising, yet roster battles will decide roles.
Overall this analysis balances hope with caution, because execution and health will determine outcomes.
Fans should watch training camp for clearer answers on snap distribution and situational trust.
Quarterback Overview: Patriots running back and quarterback analysis
The quarterback room showed clear development and some unsettled questions. Drake Maye led drills with more confident pre-snap reads. In his second year under Josh McDaniels, Maye looks sharper. He learned to recognize pressure after facing Seattle’s corner blitzes. Therefore, expectations for cleaner decision making are realistic. However, Maye did throw an interception during OTA work. That moment underscored timing issues that remain.
Tommy DeVito serves as experienced depth and a steady hand. He is a 27 year old undrafted free agent who started eight NFL games. His pro numbers include a 3-5 record, 65.3 percent completion rate, eight touchdowns, and three interceptions. DeVito signed a two year extension after Dobbs’ release. As a result, he becomes a trusted backup who can manage the game and mentor younger QBs.
Behren Morton represents upside plus injury risk. Morton threw for 8,989 college yards with a 63.3 percent completion rate and 71 touchdowns to 28 interceptions. In 2025 he ran for 705 yards at 4.9 yards per carry and scored four rushing touchdowns. Unfortunately, he suffered a hairline fibula fracture and later had shoulder surgery. Therefore, his availability and early development remain conditional on recovery.
Key takeaways
- Maye: entering year two with tailored coaching, better run support, and expected growth in reads and timing. “Hhhmmmm, maybe the Patriots scouts know more than the experts,” captures the cautious optimism.
- DeVito: seasoned backup who brings 8 starts and dependable efficiency (65.3 percent). He offers game management and veteran stability.
- Morton: high ceiling from college production, but injury history requires measured evaluation. “I was not thrilled with the selection of Morton, but I will admit that I may have under-sold Morton,” sums the mixed view.
For more context on OTAs and coach comments see Mike Vrabel’s OTA briefing at Mike Vrabel’s OTA briefing and our OTAs preview at OTAs preview. Also review how the 2026 season could unfold here 2026 season preview.
Running Backs Performance: Patriots running back and quarterback analysis
The backfield showed both steady production and intriguing depth during OTAs. Rhamondre Stevenson remains the lead back. He combines contact balance with receiving chops. Therefore, he shapes the offense both on early downs and in passing packages.
- Rhamondre Stevenson
- 603 rushing yards on 130 carries in 2025 (4.6 yards per carry)
- 2 rushing touchdowns and 32 receptions for 345 receiving yards
- 2 receiving touchdowns and a 69.9 PFF pass blocking grade (19th among backs)
- Stevenson excels as a between the tackles runner and as a checkdown weapon. However, he must sustain that pass blocking to protect Drake Maye.
- TreVeyon Henderson
- 911 rushing yards at 5.1 yards per carry in 2025
- 9 rushing touchdowns and 35 receptions on 42 targets
- Averaged 6.3 yards per reception and scored a preseason kickoff return touchdown
- Henderson offers explosiveness and third down value. As a result, he complements Stevenson with home run capability.
- Jam Miller
- Pro day speed: 4.42 40 yard dash
- 2024: 668 rushing yards; 2025: 504 rushing yards
- 2024: 16 receptions for 155 yards; 2025: 19 receptions for 109 yards
- Miller brings change of pace and special teams value. Moreover, his quickness makes him a plausible rotational option.
- Myles Montgomery
- UDFA with most guaranteed money among Patriots UDFAs
- 2025: 705 rushing yards, 4.9 yards per carry, 4 rushing TDs
- 17 receptions for 182 receiving yards and 1 receiving TD
- Montgomery blends college production with burst. Therefore he projects as a depth piece with upside.
Comparisons and roster implications
- Stevenson remains the safe bellcow. He offers reliable pass protection and catching ability. However, Henderson brings higher upside on explosive plays. Miller and Montgomery provide speed and rotation late in games. As a result, the Patriots could run a three headed committee in 2026. Coaches will weigh durability, pass protection, and receiving skills when setting snap distributions.
Scouting note: a common sentiment at OTAs was, “Hhhmmmm, maybe the Patriots scouts know more than the experts,” echoing the cautious optimism about depth and fit.
Stats Snapshot: Patriots running back and quarterback analysis
Clarifying note: The table below mixes 2026 OTA observations with 2025 season statistics and college production where noted. Values labeled with a season indicate that season. Completion percentages identified as college refer to college career numbers. Em dashes indicate not applicable or not recorded for that player. Footnote [1] explains the Drake Maye OTA interception context.
| Player Name | Position | Rushing Yards (Season) | Receiving Yards (Season) | Completion Percentage | Touchdowns (Rush+Rec) | Notable Grades or Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Drake Maye | QB | — | — | — | — | OTA interception[1]; entering year two with McDaniels |
| Tommy DeVito | QB | — | — | 65.3% (NFL career) | — | 8 starts; 8 TDs 3 INTs (career) |
| Behren Morton | QB (Rookie) | 705 (2025) | 182 (2025) | 63.3% (college) | 4 rush 1 rec (2025) | Hairline fibula fracture; shoulder surgery |
| Rhamondre Stevenson | RB | 603 (2025) | 345 (2025) | — | 2 rush 2 rec (2025) | 69.9 PFF pass blocking grade (2025) |
| TreVeyon Henderson | RB | 911 (2025) | 220 (2025) | — | 9 rush 1 rec (2025) | Explosive playmaker; preseason kickoff return TD (2025) |
| Jam Miller | RB | 504 (2025) | 109 (2025) | — | — | 4.42 40 yard dash; special teams value |
| Myles Montgomery | RB | 705 (2025) | 182 (2025) | — | 4 rush 1 rec (2025) | UDFA with guaranteed money; 4.9 YPC (2025) |
[1] Drake Maye interception occurred during 2026 OTA drills and is included as an on-field OTA observation. Table values explicitly list the season or source in parentheses so readers can quickly identify 2025 season statistics versus college production versus 2026 OTA notes.
The 2026 OTAs offered a clearer view of the Patriots running back and quarterback analysis heading into training camp. Drake Maye showed growth in pre snap reads and decision making. However, his OTA interception reminded us that timing still needs work. Rhamondre Stevenson remains the steady force between the tackles. Meanwhile, TreVeyon Henderson brings the explosive upside the offense lacked last year. As a result, the backfield depth now feels more balanced and versatile.
Behren Morton carries significant college production and upside. Unfortunately, his fibula injury and shoulder surgery temper immediate expectations. Tommy DeVito provides veteran calm and reliable backup play. Therefore, the coaching staff can protect Maye while Morton finishes his rehab. Coaches will prioritize situational reps and pass protection work to refine trust on game day.
Overall the tone is optimistic but realistic. The Patriots boast a clearer running identity and a developmental quarterback room. For ongoing, in depth coverage follow Patriots Report LLC and follow Twitter-X updates from @ZachGatsby for timely analysis and OTA notes. Stay tuned for training camp reports that will settle many of these roster questions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Will Drake Maye take a clear step forward in Year Two?
Yes, OTAs showed clear developmental signs. Maye returns for his second year with the same offensive coordinator. Therefore, continuity should speed his reads and timing. However, an OTA interception highlighted remaining timing and anticipation work. Coaches will emphasize situational reps to turn flashes into consistent play.
How serious is Behren Morton’s injury, and when can he contribute?
Morton suffered a hairline fibula fracture and later had shoulder surgery. As a result, his early availability is uncertain. His college production suggests high upside, but coaches will be cautious with reps. Consequently, expect a phased return with monitored practice workloads and no immediate every down role.
What is Tommy DeVito’s role on the depth chart?
DeVito acts as the veteran backup and steady game manager. He has eight NFL starts with a 65.3 percent completion rate, eight touchdowns, and three interceptions. Because he signed a two-year extension, the staff trusts him to stabilize games. He will mentor younger QBs and step in if needed.
How deep is the Patriots backfield, and who will win reps?
The backfield looks deeper and more balanced after OTAs. Stevenson remains the bellcow with reliable pass protection. Meanwhile, Henderson offers explosive upside and third down value. Miller and Montgomery project as rotational speed options and special teams contributors. Coaches will weigh pass protection, durability, and receiving skills when assigning snaps.
Did OTAs change expectations for the 2026 season?
OTAs produced cautious optimism rather than a guarantee. The running identity improved and the quarterback room developed. Thus, the team appears better equipped to control tempo and protect the passer. Training camp will provide the definitive answers on roles and snap distribution.