The NFL Draft is a monumental event in the world of football, a moment where young talent is selected by professional teams, each hoping to find a player who will contribute to their success for years to come. In the 2025 draft, one name that stood out was Xavier Watts, a standout safety from the University of Notre Dame. Known for his athleticism, versatility, and leadership on the field, Watts was a key figure in the Notre Dame defense and earned himself a spot as one of the top safety prospects available in the draft. His selection by the Atlanta Falcons is a thrilling development, both for Watts and for the Falcons as they look to build a competitive roster.
Xavier Watts’ College Career
Xavier Watts’ journey to the NFL is one of hard work, dedication, and a series of standout performances at one of college football’s most prestigious programs. From his early days at Notre Dame, Watts showed promise as a dynamic and intelligent player, earning a starting role early in his career. His ability to read offenses and make crucial plays on the ball became evident in his freshman year, and he built on that foundation throughout his career.
Watts played for Notre Dame from 2021 through 2024, taking on a significant role in the defensive backfield. Over the course of his career, Watts displayed his strengths in both pass coverage and run support. His versatility allowed him to be used in a variety of defensive schemes, whether it was as a deep safety in a Cover 2, or as a nickelback in passing situations. This adaptability made him an invaluable asset to the Fighting Irish defense and helped solidify his standing as one of the top safety prospects in the country.
In 2024, Watts had his breakout season. He played with a level of confidence and composure that reflected his maturity as a player. His ability to cover ground quickly and read the quarterback’s eyes made him a constant threat in the secondary. His ball skills were on full display as he racked up interceptions and pass deflections, showing his capability to take the ball away from opposing offenses.
Watts’ football IQ was one of his most outstanding traits. He had the ability to make adjustments in real-time, ensuring that he was always in the right position at the right time. Whether it was diagnosing an offensive formation or recognizing the tendencies of a quarterback, Watts was able to process information quickly and translate it into on-field success.
In addition to his physical skills, Watts was known for his leadership qualities. His work ethic and commitment to improving both individually and as part of a team were highlighted by his coaching staff and teammates. He had a calming presence on the field, often taking charge of the secondary and making sure everyone was in position. His leadership ability extended beyond the football field as well, as he was known for his community involvement and positive influence on the Notre Dame campus.
Why the Atlanta Falcons Selected Xavier Watts
The Atlanta Falcons have been on a mission to revamp their defense in recent years, and their selection of Xavier Watts in the 2025 NFL Draft fits perfectly into their long-term plans. The Falcons have struggled with consistency on defense in recent seasons, and they recognize that having a dynamic playmaker in the secondary can significantly alter the outcome of a game. Watts’ combination of athleticism, intelligence, and versatility made him an appealing choice for a team looking to strengthen its defense.
The Need for a Strong Secondary
The NFL has become an increasingly pass-heavy league, with offenses focusing on explosive plays through the air. As a result, having a strong secondary is more important than ever. The Atlanta Falcons, like many teams, have recognized the need for playmakers in the defensive backfield to compete with high-powered offenses.
In 2024, the Falcons ranked 22nd in the NFL in passing defense, allowing 238.6 yards per game through the air. While they have some talented players on the defensive side of the ball, there were still significant holes in their secondary. By selecting Xavier Watts, the Falcons are addressing a clear need and adding a player who can contribute immediately. Watts’ ability to cover ground quickly, read the quarterback, and create turnovers will provide a much-needed boost to the Falcons’ defense.
Moreover, Watts is the type of player who can immediately step into a leadership role. The Falcons are in the midst of building a young and energetic roster, and Watts’ experience in one of college football’s most respected programs will help him make an impact both on and off the field. His leadership skills will be especially valuable in helping develop younger players and creating a culture of accountability within the locker room.
Watts’ Fit in Atlanta’s Defense
The Falcons play a base 3-4 defensive scheme under head coach Arthur Smith and defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen, which is heavily reliant on versatility. The defense thrives on being able to mix up its looks, shifting between zone and man coverage, and utilizing a variety of personnel packages to confuse opposing quarterbacks. Watts’ versatility is one of his standout traits, making him an ideal fit for the Falcons’ defense.
At 6 feet, 210 pounds, Watts has the size and athleticism to be effective in both coverage and against the run. As a safety, he will be expected to cover a lot of ground and have the ability to defend against both the pass and the run. He can play deep in coverage, where his ball skills will come into play, or he can move closer to the line of scrimmage to help with run support or even blitz the quarterback. This flexibility will give the Falcons a player who can be moved around and used in different ways depending on the game situation.
One of the aspects of Watts’ game that the Falcons will be especially excited about is his ability to create turnovers. In a league where every possession matters, having a player who can force fumbles, intercept passes, and change the momentum of a game is invaluable. Watts’ nose for the ball, combined with his anticipation and awareness, makes him a threat to take the ball away at any moment. His presence will force quarterbacks to think twice before throwing in his direction, which will allow other members of the defense to make plays as well.
Expectations for Xavier Watts in the NFL
As with any rookie, expectations for Xavier Watts will need to be managed carefully. While he has the talent to be a difference-maker from day one, the transition to the NFL is never easy. The speed of the game is faster, the offenses are more complex, and the players he will face are among the best in the world. However, Watts’ work ethic and football intelligence suggest that he will be able to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
During his rookie season, Watts will likely be thrown into the fire early. He will face some of the league’s top quarterbacks and wide receivers, but his experience at Notre Dame has prepared him for this challenge. Playing in the highly competitive atmosphere of the college football playoffs and facing top-tier offenses will have given him valuable experience that will help him adjust to the NFL.
One of the keys to Watts’ success will be his ability to continue developing his game. In particular, his technique in man-to-man coverage will be something to keep an eye on. The NFL is known for its talented wide receivers, and Watts will be tasked with covering players who are faster and more skilled than most he faced in college. However, his ability to read the quarterback and anticipate throws will help him minimize the impact of these challenges.
The Future of the Falcons’ Defense
Xavier Watts’ selection signals the Falcons’ commitment to improving their defense and building a championship-caliber team. The addition of Watts to a defense that already has talented pieces like linebacker Grady Jarrett and cornerback A.J. Terrell gives the Falcons a strong foundation to build on. With Watts in the fold, the team now has a young, dynamic safety who can contribute immediately and grow into a cornerstone player for years to come.
While Watts’ development will take time, the Falcons are hopeful that he will become one of the key players in their secondary. With his mix of talent, leadership, and versatility, he has the potential to be a game-changer for the Atlanta Falcons.
Xavier Watts’ selection by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2025 NFL Draft represents an exciting opportunity for both player and team. Watts is a versatile and intelligent safety who has all the tools necessary to succeed in the NFL. With the Falcons in need of a playmaker in their secondary, Watts is a perfect fit for their defensive scheme. As he makes the transition to the NFL, expectations will be high, but with his work ethic and football IQ, Watts has the potential to become a key player in the Falcons’ defense for years to come.
