Rhamondre Stevenson is on the verge of getting benched over his fumbling issues, Jerod Mayo says

"We can't preach that ball security is job security and still have him out there the majority of the time."

Rhamondre Stevenson has remained in the Patriots’ starting lineup despite fumbling in all four games this season.

However, that may change this week against the Dolphins, coach Jerod Mayo said. Mayo is considering benching Stevenson as the Patriots look to snap a three game losing streak.

“That’s definitely under consideration,” Mayo said. “I’ve had multiple conversations with Rhamondre. We can’t preach that ball security is job security and still have him out there the majority of the time.

“I think it sends a stronger message to the players that there are certain things that we just can’t do to win, especially with the team we have today.”

Stevenson’s touches have dipped over the past two weeks. He had 19 combined carries in the losses to the Jets and 49ers. He had 25 carries in the season-opening victory over Cincinnati along.

The fourth-year running back said he understands where Mayo is coming from.

“It’s the elephant in the room,” Stevenson said. “I dropped the ball four times, so whatever the coaching staff has planned, I’m rocking with it. I’ll go out there and practice hard like I always do and get ready for Sunday.”

The fumbling issues have been uncharacteristic of Stevenson. He had four career fumbles entering this season. He has four within the past four games.

“It’s kind of different for me, but just another adversity in my life,” Stevenson said. “I think I can get past it. Back to the drawing board and just hold the ball.”

Mayo didn’t mention any specific coaching points on what Stevenson can do differently to prevent the fumbles.

“I would say they were all different, as far as how the ball came out, and it’s a mentality,” Mayo said. “It really is, and it’s easy for me to sit here and say, ‘eagle claw grip, keep the nose of the football.’”

“Those are the easy things to say,” Mayo added. “It’s a mentality, and Rhamondre has to do a better job of being aware of that stuff. He’s a target now. He has been a target since the beginning of the season, and now it just continues to show up. He understands that he just can’t do that.”

Even with the fumbles and reduced touches, Stevenson remains the Patriots’ leading rusher and the only player other than quarterback Jacoby Brissett to score more than one touchdown.

He’s one of the most potent weapons in New England’s offense and the team can’t afford to have these fumbling issues continue.

“Just hold the ball,” Stevenson. “It’s very simple. I’ve just got to hold the ball.”