Patriots Expect Stevenson and Barmore to Face Raiders

The New England Patriots expect running back Rhamondre Stevenson and defensive tackle Christian Barmore to be available against the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 5, while injuries elsewhere on the roster could force adjustments to the offense and defense. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported on Sunday, October 11, 2026, that both players were expected to return, giving New England potential reinforcements after its 29-26 victory over Buffalo.

The Patriots also enter the matchup with limited receiving depth, creating a possible opportunity for TreVeyon Henderson to contribute beyond his usual responsibilities in the backfield. According to Patriots reporter Doug Kyed, New England has four available wide receivers: Romeo Doubs, DeMario Douglas, Efton Chism and Kyle Williams.

Henderson could provide another passing option if the coaching staff chooses to deploy him in the slot. However, Kyed's report did not confirm that the Patriots had decided to use the rookie in that role.

New England's available running backs will also influence the offensive workload. Stevenson is expected to retain a prominent role in high-leverage situations, while Henderson could receive additional carries as the Patriots manage their backfield rotation.

Stevenson's availability follows a week in which he was limited during all three practice sessions because of a knee injury, according to USA Today. He had been listed as questionable before the Raiders game.

After New England's victory over Buffalo, Stevenson recorded 13 carries for 47 yards and a touchdown before experiencing a late knee scare. Patriots.com reported that he believed he had avoided a major injury.

Stevenson told reporters Friday that he was "ready to go". His expected return would preserve continuity in a rushing attack that has also relied on Henderson during the opening weeks of the season.

Through four games, Stevenson had accumulated 163 rushing yards on 44 carries, while Henderson had recorded 141 rushing yards, according to the Patriots' official statistics cited by Heavy.com. Stevenson also scored his first rushing touchdown of the season against Buffalo.

Las Vegas entered Week 5 allowing 134.5 rushing yards per game, ranking 27th in the NFL, according to the Raiders' official game preview. Stevenson's expected availability gives New England another established option as quarterback Drake Maye leads the offense.

Barmore's anticipated return could also strengthen a Patriots defense dealing with personnel shortages. The defensive tackle missed the Buffalo game after sitting out all three practices that week because of a shoulder injury.

According to New England's final injury report, Barmore progressed from limited participation Wednesday and Thursday to full participation Friday. He had recorded one sack and one forced fumble in three games this season, with both plays coming in the Patriots' Week 2 victory over Pittsburgh.

The Raiders had averaged 93 rushing yards per game through four weeks, ranking 24th in the league, according to Heavy.com. Las Vegas also listed running back Ashton Jeanty as questionable with ankle and foot injuries after he missed Friday's practice.

New England nevertheless remained short-handed heading into the matchup, with six players ruled out for Week 5, including multiple defensive backs. Kyed reported that the Patriots had only three available cornerbacks: Marcus Jones, Charles Woods and Kindle Vildor. Safety Elliott Davison had been elevated and could provide additional depth at cornerback.