Patriots sign two running backs to strengthen depth

In the United States, the New England Patriots made significant changes to their running back roster on Wednesday, August 11, 2026. The team brought in four running backs for a workout, including Hassan Haskins, JaMycal Hasty, Shane Watts, and Leshon Williams. After the workout, Haskins and Hasty were signed to contracts, with Haskins' signing confirmed by the transaction wire and Hasty's reported by USA Today's Arye Pulli. Haskins, 26, has prior experience with the coaching staff, having been drafted in the fourth round by the Tennessee Titans in 2022. However, he faced challenges, including a domestic dispute that led to his placement on the commissioner's exempt list, resulting in his release. He later spent two seasons with the Los Angeles Chargers. Hasty, 29, has a history with the Patriots, having spent parts of three seasons with the team. He was originally claimed off waivers in 2023 and became the primary kickoff return man in 2024. The Patriots' current running back situation features Rhamondre Stevenson and TreVeyon Henderson as the primary options, but there has been a struggle to find reliable depth behind them. Terrell Jennings, the incumbent, has maintained an edge over first-year players Jam Miller and Lan Larison. The team may only keep three running backs, as there is a competitive battle for roster spots among wide receivers Efton Chism III, Kyle Williams, and Cameron Dorner, who are vying for positions behind established players like AJ Brown and Romeo Doubs. Haskins and Hasty could serve as valuable veteran practice squad options if the team decides to limit the number of running backs on the active roster.