Sometimes, victories come at a cost, and the New England Patriots learned that the hard way. On Wednesday, Head Coach Mike Vrabel confirmed injuries to three key players: WR Kayshon Boutte, LB Christian Ellis, and RB Rhamondre Stevenson. For those hoping for a quick return, an NFL doctor’s latest update on Stevenson has cast serious doubt.

Sports injury analyst Jesse Morse recently weighed in on $36 million running back Rhamondre Stevenson’s situation, suggesting his recovery could take longer than anticipated. Morse hinted that the type of injury Stevenson is dealing with often lingers, affecting a player’s explosiveness and stability.

The news could not have come at a worse time, as the Patriots are on a six-game winning streak. With two days left before the Patriots will lock horns with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, replacing these players will be a real head-scratcher for Vrabel.

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Moreover, the head coach’s words on The Greg Hill Show did not instill confidence in the fans.

“I’m not into predictions. I don’t really do timeframes. But all I can tell you is that he’s working hard. So, he is fighting to get back as fast as possible.”

Morse’s comments put the spotlight on the intricacies and the importance of the depth chart in football.  A two-to-four-week absence would not be ideal for the Patriots, especially with their momentum. Sitting in the first spot in the AFC East, quarterback Drake Maye will have to adjust the playbook as they will face the Buccaneers, who sit first in the NFC South.

What are Vrabel’s options in Stevenson’s absence?

Rhamondre Stevenson has been phenomenal for the Patriots in his fifth season in the NFL. The 27-year-old has recorded 279 rushing yards from 83 carries so far. He also has three touchdowns in eight games. To fill his void, the Patriots could now turn to rookie TreVeyon Henderson or 24-year-old Terrell Jennings.

Henderson, the 38th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, has made a strong impression in his debut season with 67 carries for 283 yards and one touchdown. Fellow running back Jennings has contributed 68 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Vrabel has praised both players for their work ethic and toughness on the field. The Patriots’ depth at the position has taken a hit, though, with Antonio Gibson ruled out for the season following an ACL injury.

What remains to be seen is how the Patriots will fare without Boutte, Ellis, and Stevenson. Can they extend their winning streak despite the injuries, or will the Buccaneers hand Mike Vrabel his first loss in seven games?