Armon Watts Reveals Reason for Signing With New England Patriots

The New England Patriots have strengthened their defensive front by signing versatile lineman Armon Watts, who is excited to be playing in Foxboro.

Oct 22, 2023; Inglewood, California, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle Armon Watts (94) / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

FOXBORO — As defensive tackle Armon Watts mulled his free agent options last month, the New England Patriots stood above the rest for a simple, yet poignant reason.

“They were a team that showed interest in me early on,” Watts said while speaking with reporters on Thursday at Gillette Stadium. “Pittsburgh [Steelers] showed some interest, but at the end of the day I think New England wanted me more.”

Watts, a five-year NFL veteran defender, ultimately signed a one-year, $3 million contract with the Pats in March. The 27-year old had spent 2023 with the Steelers, appearing in 15 games while logging 15 tackles. Though Pittsburgh apparently had a desire to retain his services, Watts chose New England based on their persistence and potential — despite their dreadful 4-13 finish last season. 

“The [Patriots] record wasn’t a deal-breaker for me,” he recalled. “This is a great organization. They’ve been to the highest highs and they know the formula it takes to win … [Coach] Mayo relates to the players and he knows the blueprint.” 

Dec 9, 2021; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive tackle Armon Watts (96) / Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports

Watts entered the NFL with the Minnesota Vikings, as their sixth round (No. 190 overall) draft pick in 2019. He played three seasons with Minnesota before spending two one-year stints with the Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers, respectively. 

Throughout his career, the 6-5, 307-pound lineman has played in 72 career games making 22 starts. Watts has compiled 140 total tackles, 8.5 sacks, three forced fumbles and one pass deflection. His best season came in 2021, when he had 20 tackles and five sacks while playing for the Vikings. As he becomes acclimated into coordinator DeMarcus Covington’s defense, Watts is confident that he will contribute to the Pats aggressive style in the upcoming season. 

“I know this is a great defense.,” Watts stated. “Those guys play hard and they play all four quarters. I’ve been able to play up and down the line … from a zero-tech to a five. I’ve played in 3-4 and 4-3 defenses. I’m here to do my part, wherever they need me.”