Xavier Watts has emerged as one of the most exciting defensive back prospects in the 2024 NFL Draft after a breakout season at Notre Dame. This comprehensive guide covers everything about Watts – from his early life and college career to his NFL Draft projection and personal life. Whether you’re a draft enthusiast or just learning about this rising star, here’s your ultimate resource on Xavier Watts.
Xavier Watts’ Early Life & Background
Full Name & Age
- Full Name: Xavier Watts
- Age: As of 2024, Xavier Watts is 22 years old (born November 15, 2001)
Parents & Family
- Father: Name not publicly disclosed
- Mother: Name not publicly disclosed
- Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, where he attended Burke High School
Siblings
- Has one younger sister who plays volleyball (name undisclosed)
Height & Weight
- Height: 6’0″ (183 cm)
- Weight: 204 lbs (93 kg)
Xavier Watts’ Football Career
High School (Burke High School, NE)
- Played wide receiver and safety
- Earned Nebraska Gatorade Player of the Year honors as a senior
- Recorded 72 tackles and 7 interceptions in final high school season
College Career (Notre Dame, 2020-2023)
Early Years (2020-2022)
- Freshman Year (2020): Played sparingly in 6 games
- 2021 Season: Transitioned to full-time defensive back
- 2022 Season: Showed flashes with 39 tackles and 1 INT
Breakout 2023 Season
- Led nation with 7 interceptions
- Won Bronko Nagurski Trophy (nation’s top defensive player)
- Earned Unanimous All-American honors
- Recorded 52 tackles, 3.5 TFLs, and 1 forced fumble
NFL Draft Projection (2024)
- Expected Round: 2nd-3rd round
- Best Fits: Teams needing a ball-hawking safety (e.g., Packers, Rams, Steelers)
- Scouting Report:
- Strengths: Instincts, ball skills, tackling
- Weaknesses: Average speed, needs work in man coverage
Xavier Watts’ Personal Life
Girlfriend & Relationships
- Currently not publicly dating anyone
- Focused on NFL Draft preparation
Wife & Kids
- Not married, no children
Xavier Watts’ Net Worth & Lifestyle
Net Worth (2024 Estimate)
- 100K−500K (from NIL deals, future NFL contract)
House & Cars
- Lives in South Bend, IN (student housing during college)
- Drives a Jeep Grand Cherokee (seen in social media posts)
Brand & Endorsements
- NIL Deals: Partnered with Notre Dame apparel brands
- Social Media Following:
- Instagram: 18K+ followers (@xavierwatts_)
- Twitter (X): 12K+ followers
Xavier Watts’ NFL Draft Buzz
Pre-Draft Workouts
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.56 seconds
- Vertical Jump: 36 inches
- Broad Jump: 10’1″
Team Visits & Interest
- Worked out for Packers, Rams, and Steelers
- Received praise for football IQ and instincts
Draft Analyst Quotes
- Daniel Jeremiah (NFL Network): “Watts has the best ball skills of any safety in this class.”
- Mel Kiper Jr. (ESPN): “A Day 2 steal who could start by Year 2.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What position does Xavier Watts play?
- Safety (can play both free and strong safety)
2. What awards did Watts win in college?
- Bronko Nagurski Trophy (2023)
- Unanimous All-American (2023)
3. What round will Watts be drafted in?
- Projected as a 2nd-3rd round pick
4. What are Watts’ biggest strengths?
- Ball skills, instincts, and tackling ability
5. Which NFL teams are interested in Watts?
- Packers, Rams, and Steelers have shown interest
Conclusion
Xavier Watts brings elite ball skills and football IQ to the NFL after a dominant final season at Notre Dame. While he may not be the fastest safety, his playmaking ability and instincts make him a potential Day 2 steal in the 2024 Draft.
Which team should draft Watts? Comment below!