Patriots running backs coach Ivan Fears has seen a lot of running backs come through New England.
One of the better ones was LeGarrette Blount, who helped the team win two Super Bowls.
Speaking to reporters on Thursday, Fears compared rookie running back Rhamondre Stevenson, who the Patriots selected in the fourth round, to Blount.
"(You) know who he reminds me of is LeGarrette Blount," Fears said. "That kind of body. That kind of athletic ability. He's probably a better pass receiver than even LeGarrette was. This kid has got pretty good hands. There are a lot of doors open here. We'll see what sticks to him."
As for his role?
"Well we'll let him determine where he fits in," Fears said. "The thing that we like about the kid, he's a big kid. He's got great feet. Great athletic ability. He seems to have, seems to be a smart player. We'll find out if he can get it all learned, get it all done. If he can make the transition from what he was doing at Oklahoma to here. The guy has got a hell of a future for himself. But he's gotta get it done. And we'll see when we get to training camp. Right now, things are going well. The guy is learning, he's working hard, he's fighting through a couple nagging things, but he's working his butt off and we're excited about that."
The Patriots have a very crowded running backs room with Damien Harris, Sony Michel, James White, J.J. Taylor, Brandon Bolden and Stevenson.