Fort Hays State All-American joins New England as team continues preseason roster evaluation
Foxborough, Massachusetts – The New England Patriots announced a running back roster move on Monday, signing rookie Shane Watts while releasing first-year running back Deneric Prince, who had been with the team for just two days after signing on August 10, 2025.
Shane Watts: Division II All-American Joins Patriots
The 23-year-old Watts brings an impressive collegiate resume from Fort Hays State University, where he earned All-America Second Team honors in 2024 from three prestigious organizations: the D2CCA, Associated Press (AP), and Don Hansen Football Committee.
Exceptional Senior Season Statistics
Watts’ 2024 campaign showcased his versatility and productivity:
- 1,303 rushing yards
- 449 receiving yards
- 1,752 all-purpose yards
- 17 total touchdowns (13 rushing, 4 receiving)
At 5-foot-9 and 195 pounds, Watts demonstrates the compact, versatile skill set that NFL teams increasingly value in modern running backs.
Unique Position Switch Journey
What makes Watts’ story particularly compelling is his positional evolution at Fort Hays State. He spent his first two collegiate seasons as a defensive back before transitioning to running back, showcasing the athletic versatility and football IQ that likely caught the Patriots’ attention.
This defensive background could prove valuable in understanding opposing schemes and contributing on special teams, areas where the Patriots traditionally value their players.
Deneric Prince’s Brief Patriots Tenure
Prince’s time in New England proved short-lived, lasting just two days after signing on August 10. The 25-year-old running back brought NFL experience despite his brief stint with the organization.
Professional Background
Prince’s professional journey includes stops across multiple leagues:
- Kansas City Chiefs (2023): Rookie free agent from Tulsa
- Practice squad experience: Majority of rookie season with Chiefs
- Active roster appearances: Elevated for two games in 2023
- Miami Dolphins (2024): Full season on practice squad
- Memphis Showboats (2025): UFL experience this past spring
At 6-foot and 211 pounds, Prince offered a different physical profile than Watts but ultimately couldn’t secure his roster spot during the competitive preseason period.
Patriots Running Back Room Analysis
This roster move reflects the Patriots’ ongoing evaluation of their backfield depth as they prepare for the 2025 regular season. The signing of Watts suggests the coaching staff values his collegiate production and positional versatility over Prince’s professional experience.
Current Depth Chart Implications
The move indicates the Patriots are prioritizing:
- Versatility: Watts’ ability to contribute as both a rusher and receiver
- Special teams potential: His defensive background could translate to coverage units
- Upside over experience: Choosing developmental potential over proven NFL exposure
Scouting Report: Shane Watts
Watts’ college production suggests several NFL-translatable skills:
Strengths:
- Dual-threat ability: Nearly 450 receiving yards demonstrates proven pass-catching skills
- Touchdown production: 17 total scores indicate red zone effectiveness
- Defensive awareness: Two years at defensive back provide a unique perspective
- Work ethic: Position switch shows adaptability and learning ability
Areas for Development:
- Size concerns: A 5-9 frame may limit between-the-tackles effectiveness
- Competition level: Division II to the NFL represents a significant jump
- Pass protection: Critical skill for Patriots running backs
Training Camp Context
This move comes during a crucial period of Patriots training camp, where roster spots are being fiercely contested. The quick turnaround from Prince’s signing to release demonstrates the fluid nature of preseason roster construction.
With final roster cuts approaching, every practice and preseason game becomes critical for players like Watts to prove their worth and secure a spot on the 53-man roster or practice squad.
Historical Patriots Approach
The Patriots have historically found success with versatile, intelligent running backs who can contribute in multiple phases. Watts’ defensive background and receiving ability align with this organizational philosophy.
The team’s willingness to take chances on productive college players from smaller programs reflects their comprehensive scouting approach and belief in player development.
Looking Ahead
Watts will have limited time to make an impression before final roster decisions. His path to making the team likely runs through special teams contributions and demonstrating the versatility that made him attractive as a signing.
The remainder of the preseason will be crucial for Watts to showcase the skills that made him a Division II All-American and prove he can translate that success to the NFL level.
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Related Bad Dawg Sports Patriots Coverage:
- Efton Chism Making Strong Case for Patriots Roster Spot with Versatile Training Camp Performance
- Patriots Transactions: Prince, Robinson, Minkins, Larison Updates
- Patriots Red Zone Focus: Bradbury Minnesota Return Analysis
- Patriots Dominate Commanders 48-18: Maye and Henderson Lead Explosive Preseason Performance
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