NFL UPDATE: Notre Dame Xavier Watts Unexpectedly Tumbles Down The 2025 NFL Draft Board But Can Help Create Best Ball Hawking Duo in The NFL… Full Details…
In a surprising development, Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts — once projected as a top-15 pick — has seen his stock tumble heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite an impressive senior season and winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy as the nation’s top defensive player, concerns over measurables and scheme fit have reportedly caused several teams to cool on the standout defender.
However, scouts and analysts agree: Watts still brings elite instincts, ball skills, and a high football IQ that could make him a steal in the mid-to-late rounds. His ability to read quarterbacks and create turnovers gives him the potential to form one of the NFL’s top ball-hawking safety tandems alongside an established veteran or fellow rising star.
Several teams looking to boost their secondary — including the Ravens, Dolphins, and Cowboys — are believed to be keeping a close eye on Watts, who could prove to be one of the draft’s biggest value picks.
