The New England Patriots dominated all three phases of the game in their blowout victory over the Washington Commanders this past weekend. One of the big stars of that victory was rookie running back TreVeyon Henderson, as his first touch as a professional player went for a score on the opening kickoff.
While Henderson certainly showed off for the fans in attendance, the Patriots' coaching staff and front office seem to believe they need more help in the running back room.
One veteran with a Super Bowl championship ring to his name, Deneric Prince, lasted just two days in New England before he was released in favor of another running back, Shane Watts.
The #Patriots signed RB Shane Watts and waived RB Deneric Prince.
— Mike Kadlick (@mikekadlick) August 12, 2025
Patriots Replace Veteran RB Deneric Prince Just 2 Days After Signing Him
Prince was a member of the 2023 Kansas City Chiefs roster that took down the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl LVIII. While Prince did earn a championship ring for the contributions he made during that run, they were rather minimal. The former Tulsa Golden Hurricanes rusher appeared in two games for Kansas City and spent his time as part of the special teams unit, where he saw 15 total snaps over those two appearances.
Before joining the Patriots on Aug. 10, Prince had been signed with the Memphis Showboats of the UFL. He was a member of the Showboats' roster from February to August before his contract was terminated to allow him to sign with New England and join the Pats at training camp.
Unfortunately for Prince, that is about as far as his story went as a member of New England's roster. With Prince out of the picture, the Patriots have added Shane Watts to the fold as his replacement.
If you're unfamiliar with Watts' name, you're likely not the only one. New England's newest rusher was a four-year player at Division II Fort Hays State, where he earned Second Team All-American honors in 2024. In his final season at Fort Hays State, Watts accumulated 1,752 all-purpose yards and 17 total touchdowns, 13 rushing and four receiving.
What happens with Watts moving forward is anyone's guess after Prince lasted just two days on the roster. With a preseason appearance against the Minnesota Vikings just days away, however, the former All-American may get his opportunity to prove his worth to the entire football-watching world.