The Patriots have decided to shut down Rhamondre Stevenson for the rest of the season. Since suffering a high-ankle sprain a few weeks ago Stevenson has been slow to heal and hasn’t practiced. With New England out of playoff contention there is no need to rush Stevenson back this season and have decided to save their stud running back for next year.

With this news, Ezekiel Elliot will continue to be the RB1 for the Patriots but also a solid RB2 for fantasy managers heading into the fantasy finals. Since taking over as lead back Elliot has treated fantasy managers to two 20-plus PPR fantasy performances in three weeks. In Elliot’s previous appearance versus Buffalo, he rushed 11 times for 31 yards and a touchdown while splitting time with Stevenson. Now with Stevenson out of the picture, Elliot and fantasy managers should enjoy the outcome come Sunday, with the veteran getting all the touches.