In a stunning twist that has sent ripples through the football world, former Fort Hays State University (FHSU) running back Shane Watts has made a dramatic leap from the Canadian Football League (CFL) to the National Football League (NFL). Just weeks after signing with the CFL’s Hamilton Tiger-Cats on July 16, 2025, Watts was signed by the New England Patriots on August 12, 2025, marking a remarkable turn in his burgeoning professional career.
A Stellar Collegiate Career at Fort Hays State
Shane Watts, a 23-year-old, 5-foot-9, 195-pound powerhouse from De Soto, Kansas, left an indelible mark at Fort Hays State, a Division II program. Initially a defensive back for his first two seasons, Watts transitioned to running back, showcasing his versatility and athletic prowess. His 2024 season was nothing short of spectacular, earning him All-America Second Team honors from the D2CCA, Associated Press, and Don Hansen Football Committee. Watts racked up 1,303 rushing yards and 13 touchdowns on 223 carries across 11 games, while also contributing 41 receptions for 449 yards and four receiving touchdowns, totaling 1,752 all-purpose yards and 17 touchdowns.
This exceptional performance put Watts on the radar of professional teams, but his journey to the NFL was anything but conventional.
A Brief Stint with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats
On July 16, 2025, Watts signed with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the CFL, a move that seemed to set the stage for his professional debut in Canada. The announcement was met with excitement from FHSU fans, who saw it as a testament to Watts’ talent and hard work. However, his time with the Tiger-Cats was short-lived. Just under a month later, the New England Patriots came calling, offering Watts an opportunity to compete at the highest level of professional football.
Patriots’ Running Back Depth Crisis Sparks Opportunity
The Patriots’ decision to sign Watts came at a critical time for the team. With injuries and roster changes thinning their running back depth, New England hosted Watts for a visit on August 11, 2025, as reported by ESPN’s Mike Reiss. The team’s primary running back, Rhamondre Stevenson, had not returned to practice since the preseason opener against the Washington Commanders, and rookie Lan Larison was placed on injured reserve with a broken foot. Additionally, Terrell Jennings left practice early, and recently signed Deneric Prince was absent from practice, creating an urgent need for depth. Watts’ signing was announced alongside the release of Prince, signaling the team’s confidence in the rookie’s potential.
A Long Shot with Big Potential
Despite his impressive collegiate stats, Watts faces an uphill battle to secure a spot on the Patriots’ 53-man roster. As an undrafted rookie joining the team late in training camp, he is at a disadvantage in terms of playbook familiarity. Analysts, including RotoWire and FOX Sports, have noted that it would be a “shock” for Watts to make the final roster, given the established depth chart led by veterans Rhamondre Stevenson and rookie TreVeyon Henderson, alongside Antonio Gibson, Terrell Jennings, and JaMycal Hasty.
However, Watts’ unique background as a former defensive back and his explosive playmaking ability make him an intriguing prospect. His versatility could see him carve out a role on special teams, a common path for rookies fighting for a roster spot. Sporting News highlighted Watts’ potential for growth, noting that his relatively short time as a running back suggests he may still have untapped potential.
A Story Worth Rooting For
Watts’ rapid transition from Division II standout to CFL signee to NFL hopeful is a testament to his talent and determination. His journey reflects the unpredictability of professional football, where opportunities can arise in an instant. For Patriots fans, Watts represents an underdog story—a player with a “fantastic name” and a fascinating backstory, as Sporting News put it, who could surprise everyone if given a chance to shine.
As the NFL preseason progresses, all eyes will be on Shane Watts to see if he can defy the odds and make a name for himself in New England. Whether he secures a roster spot or not, his whirlwind journey from Fort Hays State to the NFL is already one for the books.