The New England Patriots signed rookie running back Akeem Shavers off waivers Tuesday, according to Pro Football Talk. Shavers went undrafted in the 2013 NFL Draft out of Purdue, and was initially signed as a UDFA by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers before being waived Monday.
Patriots sign RB Akeem Shavers off waivers
Akeem Shavers was waived by Tampa Bay on Monday, but he quickly found a new team.
Andrew Weber-US PRESSWIRE
Shavers averaged just under 4.8 yards per carry during his college career. In 2012, he racked up 871 yards rushing off 181 carries, 370 yards receiving off 18 receptions, and scored nine total touchdowns with the Boilermakers. At 5’10, 198 pounds, he could be a versatile change-of-pace back in the NFL.
Shavers could have a tough time seeing the field in a deep Patriots offensive backfield, however. Stevan Ridley, Shane Vereen, Brandon Bolden, LeGarrette Blount, Leon Washington, and James Develin will all be staking their claims for touches during OTAs and training camp.
Shavers was perhaps an underrated prospect coming out of college. He’ll have chance to carve out a place in the NFL, but he’ll have to overcome some healthy competition first.
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