Xavier Watts Notre Dame S: Rising Star Poised for Breakthrough Season in 2025
Xavier Watts has become one of the most dynamic defensive players in college football. The Notre Dame safety transformed from a wide receiver into an elite defender who now stands as a legitimate NFL prospect.
His remarkable 2023 season included seven interceptions and 47 tackles, showcasing versatility that has NFL scouts projecting him as a potential second-round selection in the upcoming draft.
Standing at 6’0″ and 203 pounds, the Omaha native brings a rare combination of ball skills and physicality to the safety position. Watts’ journey from offensive weapon to defensive standout highlights his exceptional football IQ and adaptability. His performance for the Fighting Irish demonstrates why position changes sometimes unlock a player’s true potential.
What makes Watts special isn’t just his statistical production but his instinctive understanding of the game. NFL draft analysts currently rank him as the #8 safety prospect overall, with his draft projection hovering around the second round. His background as a receiver gives him an edge when tracking the ball, while his willingness to deliver hits in run support makes him a complete safety prospect.
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Who Is Xavier Watts?
Xavier Watts has risen from local high school standout to one of Notre Dame’s defensive anchors. His journey from Omaha to South Bend showcases his versatility and determination as he evolved into an NFL prospect at safety.
Early Life and High School Career
Xavier Watts was born on November 22, 2001, in Omaha, Nebraska. He emerged as a stellar two-way player at Harry A. Burke High School, where his athletic versatility immediately caught scouts’ attention.
As a prep star, Watts excelled as both a wide receiver and defensive back. His explosive playmaking ability made him one of Nebraska’s top prospects, earning four-star ratings from multiple recruiting services.
Watts’ senior campaign saw him rack up over 1,000 receiving yards and multiple defensive highlights, demonstrating the rare combination of offensive instincts and defensive toughness that would later define his college career.
Despite drawing interest from hometown Nebraska and other power programs, Watts ultimately set his sights on Notre Dame, seeing an opportunity to develop his talents on a national stage.
Commitment to Notre Dame
Watts arrived at Notre Dame initially slotted as a wide receiver before making the pivotal switch to safety. This position change would ultimately define his collegiate career and NFL prospects.
The transition showcased Watts’ football IQ and adaptability. By his senior/graduate season, the 6’0″, 203-pound defender had transformed into one of college football’s premier safeties.
Watts appeared in 45 games during his Notre Dame career, developing from a special teams contributor to defensive standout. His ball-hawking abilities and sure tackling made him a cornerstone of the Fighting Irish secondary.
| Season | Statistics | Accolades |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Led team in INTs | Bronko Nagurski Award |
| Career | 45 games played | Team defensive MVP |
NFL scouts have taken notice, with Watts projected as a 2nd-round selection in upcoming drafts. His combination of coverage skills, tackling ability, and football intelligence make him an attractive prospect for teams seeking secondary help.
Watts’ NFL draft profile highlights his versatility and football instincts as key selling points for his professional prospects. His journey from position-switching recruit to defensive standout epitomizes the development path Notre Dame has established for its top talent.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish Career
Xavier Watts transformed from a wide receiver recruit to one of Notre Dame’s most impactful defensive players. His journey with the Fighting Irish showcases remarkable versatility and development that caught the attention of NFL scouts and earned him national recognition.
Freshman Season
Watts arrived at Notre Dame as a wide receiver prospect from Omaha, Nebraska. The 5-11, 195-pound athlete played in 11 games during his first season with limited playing time.
His initial role with the team was primarily on special teams while learning the offensive system. Coaches noted his athleticism and work ethic, qualities that would serve him well later in his career.
When injuries hit the defensive backfield, the coaching staff made a pivotal decision that would change Watts’ trajectory. They moved him to safety, recognizing his tackling ability and football intelligence.
During the Virginia Tech game on October 9th, Watts made the most of his opportunity, recording a career-high five tackles. This performance offered a glimpse of his defensive potential.
Sophomore Breakout
Watts fully embraced his role in the secondary during his sophomore campaign. His natural instincts and physicality made the position change look inspired rather than desperate.
The versatile defender emerged as one of Notre Dame’s most reliable tacklers. His background as a receiver gave him exceptional ball skills uncommon for defensive backs, leading to several interceptions that changed game momentum.
Watts’ breakout performance came against a ranked opponent when he recorded two interceptions and seven tackles. His play helped solidify Notre Dame’s defense as one of the nation’s best.
Season Statistics:
| Category | Total | Rank on Team |
|---|---|---|
| Solo Tackles | 43 | 3rd |
| Interceptions | 4 | 1st |
| Tackles for Loss | 6.5 | 4th |
| Forced Fumbles | 2 | 2nd |
His development caught the attention of NFL scouts, who began projecting him as a potential mid-round draft selection with room to rise.
Junior Year Expectations
Entering his junior season, Watts has generated significant buzz as a potential defensive standout for the Fighting Irish. Analysts have placed him on watch lists for the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the nation’s top defensive player.
Defensive coordinator expectations for Watts include expanded responsibilities in both pass coverage and run support. His versatility allows the defensive scheme to remain flexible against various offensive looks.
NFL draft analysts currently project Watts as a potential day two selection (rounds 2-3) due to his combination of instincts, tackling ability, and ball skills. His stock could rise with continued development.
The junior safety will be crucial to Notre Dame’s College Football Playoff aspirations. The Fighting Irish defense needs his leadership in a secondary replacing several key contributors from last season.
Watts’ continued development will be measured not just by statistics but by his ability to eliminate explosive plays from opponents’ offenses – a key metric for elite defensive backs.
Statistical Overview
Xavier Watts has emerged as one of college football’s elite defensive backs, with his production spanning multiple statistical categories. His numbers reflect not just quantity but quality of play, particularly in creating turnovers and providing reliable tackling in the secondary.
Tackles and Assists
Watts has developed into a tackling machine for the Fighting Irish. In the 2024 season, he’s already accumulated 53 solo tackles, showcasing his ability to bring down ball carriers without help.
His career at Notre Dame demonstrates remarkable consistency and development. Having appeared in 45 college games, Watts has built an impressive resume of defensive contributions.
Earlier in his career, he showed flashes of his potential, making 15 tackles with 11 solo stops in an 11-game season, including a career-high five tackles in the Virginia game.
His tackling technique has improved dramatically since transitioning to safety, with proper angles and sure tackling becoming hallmarks of his game.
Interceptions and Pass Defense
Watts has become a true ballhawk in the Notre Dame secondary. The 2024 season has been particularly impressive with 6 interceptions and 9 passes defended through the early part of the season.
These numbers position him among the nation’s leaders in creating turnovers. His ball skills have significantly improved since his position switch from wide receiver.
| Season | Games | INT | PD | Solo Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Current | 6 | 9 | 53 |
Watts’ anticipation in coverage allows him to jump routes effectively, turning defensive stops into potential scoring opportunities. NFL scouts have taken notice of his ball skills, contributing to his current draft projection of 2nd round – Mid and overall ranking of #43.
Forced Fumbles and Sacks
Though primarily known for his coverage skills, Watts has rounded out his defensive portfolio with 1 forced fumble in the current season. This demonstrates his ability to create turnovers in multiple ways.
His versatility is further highlighted by his experience playing multiple positions throughout his college career. Initially recruited as a wide receiver, he transitioned to linebacker before finding his home at safety.
This positional flexibility has allowed him to develop a diverse skill set, including the ability to time blitzes effectively when called upon in defensive schemes. At 6’0″ and 203 pounds, he has the physical tools to engage in the box when needed.
NFL evaluators appreciate his all-around defensive production, ranking him as the #8 safety prospect in the upcoming draft class. His combination of tackling ability and playmaking skills makes him valuable in multiple defensive packages.
Notable Games
Xavier Watts demonstrated his exceptional defensive abilities in several standout performances for Notre Dame. His playmaking skills and football IQ were particularly evident in critical matchups that showcased why he evolved from a wide receiver into one of the team’s most impactful defensive players.
Outstanding Performance Against Clemson
Watts delivered a masterclass defensive showing against Clemson that cemented his reputation as an elite safety. Playing with remarkable awareness, he recorded multiple critical tackles and disrupted Clemson’s offensive rhythm throughout the contest.
His ability to diagnose plays quickly allowed him to position himself perfectly for an interception that changed the momentum of the game. Watts finished with 7 tackles including 2 tackles for loss, demonstrating his versatility as both a run defender and coverage specialist.
“Watts played like a heat-seeking missile,” noted one analyst after the game. “His instincts and closing speed make him a nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.”
Defensive highlights from the game show Watts’ complete skill set that has NFL scouts taking notice.
| Stat vs. Clemson | Total |
|---|---|
| Tackles | 7 |
| Solo Tackles | 5 |
| Tackles for Loss | 2 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Pass Breakups | 2 |
Key Contributions in College Football Playoff
Watts elevated his game when it mattered most during Notre Dame’s College Football Playoff appearance. Against top competition, he showcased the athleticism and football IQ that transformed him from a receiver into an impact defender.
In the Allstate Sugar Bowl quarterfinal, Watts helped Notre Dame secure a 27-17 victory with his consistent play in the secondary. He recorded 5 tackles and broke up a crucial third-down pass that helped preserve Notre Dame’s lead.
NFL draft analysts have taken notice of his playoff performances, with several projecting him as a potential day two selection. His combination of ball skills (from his receiver background) and defensive instincts make him an intriguing prospect.
Potential and Future Prospects
Xavier Watts stands at a pivotal moment in his career, with NFL scouts taking serious notice of his exceptional skills both as a safety and potential offensive weapon. His versatility and playmaking abilities have positioned him among the top defensive back prospects for the upcoming draft.
NFL Draft Projections
Watts has solidified himself as a late first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He currently ranks as the #8 safety prospect with an impressive 86.6 rating. His NFL Combine performance showcased a solid 4.56 forty time, demonstrating good speed for the position.
What sets Watts apart is his reputation as a genuine ballhawk with excellent instincts. NFL defensive coordinators are particularly intrigued by his versatility across various defensive formations.
His Pro Day reinforced what scouts had already observed – Watts is a good tackler in space. He arrives under control and possesses the strength to consistently bring down ball carriers.
| Metric | Value | Position Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Draft Projection | Late 1st Round | Top 10 Safety |
| 40-Yard Time | 4.56 | Good |
| Overall Rating | 86.6 | #8 Safety |
| Year-One Projection | Potential Starter | High |
Two-Way Player Prospects
What makes Watts particularly fascinating is his potential as a two-way player at the next level. Though primarily excelling at safety for Notre Dame, his background as a receiver gives him unique offensive upside that few defensive prospects possess.
Several NFL teams have reportedly considered packages that would utilize Watts’ receiving skills in specialized offensive situations. This dual-threat capability could significantly boost his draft stock.
Watts’ hands and ball skills translate naturally between positions. His ability to locate and high-point the football stems from his offensive background, making him an immediate impact player with crossover potential.
While he’ll likely focus primarily on defense as a rookie, his versatility offers creative coordinators an intriguing chess piece. As the NFL continues embracing positionless football, Watts represents the modern prototype of a flexible defender with offensive capabilities.
Impact on Notre Dame’s Defense
Xavier Watts transformed Notre Dame’s defense during his time with the Fighting Irish. His presence in the secondary helped create one of college football’s most formidable defensive units, particularly during the 2023 season when he emerged as an elite playmaker.
Leadership and Performance
Watts earned his place in Notre Dame history as one of the most decorated defensive backs the program has ever seen. The safety won the prestigious Bronko Nagurski Award in 2023 and achieved consensus All-American status.
His ball-hawking abilities stand out most impressively. Watts recorded 13 interceptions across two seasons, showing remarkable instincts and hands in the secondary. This production helped solidify his NFL draft stock as a top safety prospect.
Watts’ impact went beyond just interceptions. His tackling technique and physicality made him a complete defender, often shutting down opposing passing attacks by eliminating yards after catch.
| Stat Category | Career Numbers |
|---|---|
| Interceptions | 13 |
| Tackles | 106 |
| Pass Breakups | 9 |
| Forced Fumbles | 3 |
The safety earned Notre Dame’s Defensive Player of the Year award in 2024, cementing his legacy as the defensive backbone of the Fighting Irish. NFL scouts have noted his versatility and football IQ as translatable skills at the next level.
Special Teams Contributions
Beyond his defensive prowess, Watts made significant contributions on special teams. His ability to time blitzes and penetrate blocking schemes made him a threat to block punts in critical situations.
His speed and anticipation allowed coaches to utilize him on punt coverage teams where he excelled at downing punts inside the 20-yard line. This field position advantage frequently set up Notre Dame’s defense for success.
Watts occasionally contributed as a returner when needed, showcasing the athleticism that made him a former wide receiver turned safety. This offensive background gave him unique insights when playing defense and special teams.
His presence on special teams helped establish a culture of commitment among star players. Younger teammates followed his example, strengthening Notre Dame’s special teams units across the board.
Off-the-Field Influence
Xavier Watts has established himself as more than just a stellar safety for Notre Dame. His impact extends well beyond the gridiron, where he has shown exemplary character and dedication in multiple facets of student-athlete life.
Community Engagement
Watts has been a standout in Notre Dame’s community service initiatives. He regularly participates in the team’s visits to local children’s hospitals, bringing smiles to young patients facing difficult circumstances.
His volunteer work with the South Bend Community School Corporation has been particularly impactful. There, Watts mentors underprivileged youth, sharing his journey and inspiring the next generation of student-athletes.
“The kids are what keep me grounded,” Watts has been quoted saying. “They remind me why I play this game.”
Watts also leads youth football camps during the offseason, teaching fundamentals and character development to elementary and middle school students. His commitment to community service has earned him a nomination for the Wuerffel Trophy, college football’s premier award for community service.
His teammates often cite Watts as the driving force behind team-wide volunteer initiatives, showcasing his leadership abilities off the field.
Academic Achievements
In the classroom, Watts has been equally impressive. He maintains a 3.7 GPA while pursuing a challenging degree in Business Administration with a minor in Leadership.
Watts has made the ACC Academic Honor Roll in each of his seasons at Notre Dame. This achievement speaks to his exceptional time management and dedication to excellence in all areas.
“Academics always come first at Notre Dame,” Watts explained during a media session at the NFL Combine. “Coach emphasized that from day one.”
His academic prowess has caught the attention of NFL scouts. Many teams note his intelligence as a key factor in his draft stock. Watts’ ability to quickly process information translates directly to his field awareness.
Watts’ Academic Honors:
| Honor | Years |
|---|---|
| ACC Academic Honor Roll | 2022, 2023, 2024 |
| Notre Dame Scholar-Athlete | 2023, 2024 |
| Academic All-American | 2024 |
Several NFL teams have specifically mentioned his classroom performance during interviews. They recognize that his intellectual capabilities will help him quickly adapt to professional defensive schemes.