ATL • • #
One of the most decorated defenders in Notre Dame history, Watts (6’0/204) enters the 2025 NFL Draft with a résumé stacked with production and accolades. A converted wide receiver who initially bounced around positions before finding his home at free safety, Watts earned back-to-back first-team AP All-American honors and captured the 2023 Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defender. Over the last two seasons, he racked up 13 interceptions, allowed zero touchdowns in coverage, and was a driving force behind a top-tier Irish defense. Watts’ tape showcases his elite football IQ and anticipatory skills. He thrives in zone-heavy alignments where his ability to read the quarterback and jump routes stands out. His 2024 PFF coverage grade of 89.5 ranks among the best in the class, and his 6 interceptions last season are no fluke, as Watts has an uncanny knack for being in the right place at the right time. He’s a quick-trigger player who sees things unfold before they happen, and his ability to range from deep or buzz underneath makes him scheme-versatile. However, the athletic profile gives pause. At 5’11”, 204 with a 4.58 forty and a middling 5.79 RAS, he’s a below-average tester with limited burst and twitch. The lack of agility testing only adds uncertainty and he tends to lose leverage in run fits. Watts projects best as a split-safety in zone-heavy systems, where his instincts and ball skills can shine without exposing his man-coverage limitations.
about 2 months ago
April 26, 2025 3:03 AM
