Patriots keep Stevenson, bring back Gonzalez, emphasize ball security

After a turnover-plagued loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers, the New England Patriots said Friday they will keep starter Rhamondre Stevenson in the lineup while ramping up ball security work, and they welcomed the season debut of cornerback Christian Gonzalez in Sunday’s win over the Carolina Panthers. Coach Mike Vrabel described the response as corrective rather than punitive as the team prepares for the next stretch of the schedule at Gillette Stadium.

Stevenson fumbled twice in the 21-14 loss, part of a broader pattern: he had among the highest fumble totals of any nonquarterback over recent games and led the team in lost fumbles last season. The Patriots turned the ball over five times against Pittsburgh, with runs, a backup back and quarterback Drake Maye also contributing to the total. Asked whether Stevenson would be disciplined with reduced playing time, Vrabel said no, adding that "the discipline is we need our best players to play in a game and do their job and take care of football." Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels and teammates voiced continued confidence in Stevenson’s preparation and value to the offense.

Still, the coaching staff made ball security a central...