FOXBOROUGH, Mass. – The New England Patriots announced today the signing of rookie RB Shane Watts. In addition, the Patriots released first-year RB Deneric Prince, who was signed by New England on August 10, 2025.
Watts, 23, played four years at Fort Hays State and was an All-America Second Team selection in 2024 by three separate organizations, including the D2CCA, Associated Press (AP), and Don Hansen Football Committee. The 5-foot-9, 195-pounder, finished the year with 1,303 rushing yards and 449 receiving yards for 1,752 all-purpose yards. He scored 17 touchdowns, including 13 rushing and four receiving. Watts spent the first two seasons at Fort Hayes State as a defensive back before switching to running back.
Prince, 25, originally entered the NFL as a rookie free agent with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2023 out of Tulsa. The 6-foot, 211-pounder, spent the majority of his rookie season on the practice squad but was elevated to the active roster for two games. After being released by Kansas City following training camp in 2024, Prince spent the year on the Miami Dolphins practice squad. He played with the Memphis Showboats of the UFL this past spring.
