This is the second installment of the Patriots On SI Positional Draft Preview, focusing on the running back position and its potential evolution next season. The analysis suggests that acquiring a new back could become a valuable move one year from now.

Current State of the Patriots Backfield

Rhamondre Stevenson and Treveyon Henderson are set to remain the primary workhorses in the offense. Stevenson, the power runner, had a standout year, overcoming previous fumbling issues to become a key weapon in Josh McDaniels' scheme.

Henderson carved out a significant role, highlighted by scoring five touchdowns over a two-week stretch. However, the depth chart behind this duo appears murky heading into the next campaign.

Depth Concerns and Roster Uncertainty

The previous RB3, Antonio Gibson, tore his ACL in Week 5 last season and was subsequently released last month. The remaining players at the position are young talents recovering from injuries, lacking a clear path to the 53-man roster currently.

Behind Stevenson and Henderson are Terrell Jennings, Lan Larison, and Elijah Mitchell. For the fullback role, Reggie Gilliam, Jack Westover, and Brock Lampe will compete, although the newly-signed Gilliam holds the advantage.

Drafting Strategy for Running Back Depth

The Patriots are not in a position to target one of the elite running backs early in the upcoming draft. Top prospects like Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love are expected to be selected within the first 15 picks.

Nebraska's Emmett Johnson and Arkansas' Mike Washington Jr. are strong candidates for day two selections. New England does not require an everyday starter that early, suggesting any running back selection will likely occur on day three.

Mid-Round Targets and Skill Sets

The focus should shift to the middle tier of runners where solid, compact players are available. This group includes Nicholas Singleton, who is currently recovering from an offseason injury, alongside Le'Veon Moss, Jam Miller, and J'Mari Taylor.

The team's need isn't solely for a third-down back or an every-down runner. A crucial factor will be finding a player capable of contributing on special teams and providing reliable pass protection when called upon.

Potential Day Three Additions

Players like Navy's Eli Heidenreich and Clemson's Adam Randall fit this specific profile as potential additions. Randall, a converted wide receiver, could serve as a versatile gadget player in an offense that frequently utilizes running backs out of the backfield.

Randall has reportedly been involved in one of the few known "30" meetings with New England so far. He could potentially slide to the fourth round, presenting an opportunity for the Patriots to secure his services.