Overview

• Head coach Mike Vrabel said Stevenson is not under discipline and will be available against the Panthers, citing a need for the team’s best players to play and protect the ball.
• The Patriots escalated ball‑security drills this week, including coaches using gloves, poles and punch simulations, with players reporting multiple new exercises focused on finishing runs securely.
• Stevenson lost two fumbles in the Week 3 defeat to the Steelers, part of a game with five New England turnovers that swung the result despite a significant yardage edge.
• ESPN reporting indicates a short‑term consequence remains possible, with rookie TreVeyon Henderson potentially seeing more touches, though coaches are reluctant to make a permanent change at lead back.
• Stevenson said he had one of his better practice weeks and welcomed the staff’s support, acknowledging he must regain trust by maintaining 100% ball security.