Former N.J. prep star signs three-year deal with New York Rangers

Defenseman Drew Fortescue‘s college season ended in defeat on Friday, and he quickly pivoted to inking his first professional deal with the Rangers hours later. Fortescue, who grew up in Pearl River, New York, and starred at Don Bosco Prep, signed a three-year, entry-level contract. He was originally selected by the Rangers in the third round of the 2023 NHL Entry Draft, which made him the first Don Bosco product to be drafted into the NHL. He proceeded to play three seasons for Boston College, where he skated in 112 contests and developed into one of the nation’s top collegiate defensemen. During the 2024-25 season, the 6-foot-2, 195-pound Fortescue notched a career-high 11 assists and a plus-28 rating, tied for seventh among all NCAA skaters. This year, he netted four goals and 10 assists for a career high 14 points in 36 games for Boston College. Among all Boston College defensemen, he ranked second in goals and third in assists and points. The Eagles fell to UConn in the Hockey East semifinals Friday night. Fortescue also represented Team USA at the U20 World Junior Championships in 2024 and 2025. Prior to enrolling at BC, he also played for the U.S. National U18 team in 2023 and U17 team in 2022. He earned a gold medal at both U20 Championships and at the U18 Championship.