Patriots Make Two Running Back Additions Amid Depth Struggles

The New England Patriots added two running backs to bolster their depth on Wednesday. They evaluated four potential newcomers - Hassan Haskins, JaMycal Hasty, Shane Watts, and Leshon Williams - through a workout session. Two of these signings were confirmed: Haskins, 26, and Hasty, 29.

Haskins has prior experience with the Patriots coaching staff, having been signed by the Tennessee Titans in the fourth round in 2022. However, his tenure with the team was brief, as he was released following a domestic dispute and placed on the commissioner's exempt list. Despite this setback, Haskins rebounded and played for the Los Angeles Chargers in the last two seasons.

Hasty, 29, previously played for the Patriots over three seasons. He was initially claimed off waivers in 2023 and primarily served as the kickoff return man in 2024. Alongside Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson, Hasty could potentially join the club as a veteran practice squad option.

The Patriots have traditionally struggled to find sufficient depth behind their star running backs. The incumbent starter, Terrell Jennings, has held an edge over first-year players, Jam Miller and Lan Larison. If the club opts to retain only three running backs, Haskins and Hasty may serve as valuable depth options.