Oklahoma Sooners Football: RB Rhamondre Stevenson selected by New England Patriots with the No. 120 overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft

Oklahoma Sooners RB Rhamondre Stevenson’s path to the NFL has been anything but conventional, but he has landed in a situation that can only be described as ‘ideal’. He’s been selected by the New England Patriots in the fourth round with the No. 120 overall pick in the NFL draft. He also is now part of Josh McDaniels’ offense, where his versatile skill set will be put to great use.

Rhamondre Stevenson’s story (from Seth Oliveras’ draft profile)

Rhamondre Stevenson, originally from Las Vegas, Nevada, made his way to Norman in 2019 after playing two years of JUCO ball at Cerritos College in California. As a recruit, he held scholarship offers from the likes of USC, Texas and Kansas State among others, but he ultimately made the wise decision to suit up for Lincoln Riley and the Sooners.

Compared to most other running backs in this year’s draft class, Stevenson likely has less experience at the Division I level, but what he does have is certainly impressive. In a limited reserve role in 2019, he showcased an ability to routinely maintain his balance, and with his size, he’s definitely not afraid of contact. Going into the postseason, he had racked up 515 rushing yards and six touchdowns on 64 carries. He also added 10 receptions for 87 receiving yards.

Unfortunately for Stevenson, he was sidelined — along with Ronnie Perkins and Trejan Bridges — from playing in the CFP Peach Bowl Semifinal on account of a suspension for a positive NCAA drug test. To make matters all the more challenging, the penalty would extend into the 2020 season.

After Oklahoma had played its first five games of the condensed 2020 campaign, Stevenson was finally allowed to rejoin his teammates by contributing on the field. Immediately, his impact was felt in a big way. Down the stretch, he appeared in each of OU’s final six games, and along the way he amassed 665 yards and seven TDs on 101 carries. He also recorded 18 catches for 211 receiving yards.

The cherry on top of Stevenson’s collegiate career came in the Cotton Bowl Classic against the Florida Gators, where the veteran rusher bullied his way to 186 yards and a score on 18 carries. By game’s end, he was named Offensive MVP for his incredible performance.

Following the Cotton Bowl, Stevenson began his training toward what he hopes will be a long and prosperous professional career. He took part in the Reese’s Senior Bowl in Mobile, Alabama, then followed up that appearance with a solid showing at OU’s Pro Day.