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Another one in the series of NFL draft prospects by those passionate fans who watch and study their college teams closer than any reporter. This time Greg checked in on one of his favorite Notre Dame standouts.
Standing six feet tall and weighing 205 pounds, Xavier Watts has become a standout player for the Fighting Irish. As a safety, he has shown remarkable skill and tenacity on the field, quickly becoming a fan favorite.
Watts’ two most memorable games came against the fierce rivals, USC. In 2023, he intercepted Caleb Williams, contributing to a 48-20 victory for the Irish. The following year, in 2024, Watts set a record for a Fighting Irish defender by surpassing 100 yards with a pick-six. This remarkable feat came after Christian Gray had set a new record with a 99-yard pick-six earlier in the game. These performances solidified Watts’ reputation as a game-changer.
In 2023, Watts’ exceptional performance earned him the prestigious Bronco Nagurski Award, further cementing his place in college football history.
Looking ahead, fans like me are eager to see Watts take his talents to the NFL, with the Dallas Cowboys being an ideal destination. His draft potential is promising, with expectations for him to be picked in the third round.
Watts brings a linebacker’s mentality to playing safety, demonstrating a unique blend of aggression and strategy. Despite his limited time as a safety—having transitioned from a wide receiver out of high school—Watts has quickly adapted and excelled. While this might raise concerns for some, it also highlights his versatility and rapid learning curve.
Drawing a parallel with Trevon Diggs, who successfully transitioned from wide receiver to cornerback, Watts’ future looks bright. With twelve interceptions in two seasons and a proven ability to stop running backs, Watts has been well-coached by Al Golden, ensuring his skills are honed to perfection.
In conclusion, Xavier Watts is a formidable player whose impact on the field is undeniable. His journey from wide receiver to award-winning safety speaks volumes about his dedication and talent. As he prepares for the next chapter in his career, fans eagerly await his future successes in the NFL.
I have always believed that passionate fans have a deeper understanding of their teams and players than agenda-driven sports reporters. Fans are not concerned if a player was rude to a reporter in the locker room; instead, they focus on the player’s performance and character without being swayed by personal grudges.
These dedicated fans work forty hours a week and reserve their weekends in the fall to watch their teams compete. Many attend a few games each season and often create a special viewing area in their homes to cheer for their teams.
To gather honest opinions on the players from their schools who will be eligible for the NFL Draft, I decided to reach out to my passionate friends who support various teams.
First up is lifelong Penn State fan and former season ticket holder Scott, who discusses the first players expected to be drafted on day one of the NFL Draft.
1. Abdul Carter DE/EDGE 6-3 259
Unanimous All-American 2024
Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year 2024
2 X first-team All-Big Ten 2023, 2024
Second-team All-Big Ten 2022
Strength: Speed to rush the passer. He switched to DE from being a linebacker. Physical and aggressive.
Weakness: He still needs more time as an edge rusher. Can over pursue at times.
What was the best game or performance you remember him having during his career at Penn State? He had an outstanding playoff run. The play I remember most is when he broke through the Notre Dame line and sacked Riley Leonard using just one arm.
Is he destined for success in the NFL, CFL, or WFL?: First-round NFL draft pick
Would you want him on your team? Absolutely yes!
Likely landing spot: New York Jets
Explore our breakdown of which 2025 NFL Draft prospects have the most to gain from Monday’s College Football National Championship game between Ohio State and Notre Dame…
— Read on www.the33rdteam.com/2025-nfl-draft-players-with-most-on-the-line-in-national-championship/
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