Xavier Watts has steadily built a reputation as one of college football's most instinctive and versatile safeties. As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, his athleticism and intelligence have positioned him as a prime target for teams looking to strengthen their secondary.

Rising Star at Notre Dame

Watts’s journey from wide receiver to standout safety for Notre Dame is a testament to his adaptability and football IQ. He led the Fighting Irish secondary with a string of impressive performances, notching 13 interceptions over the past two seasons. Watts’s playmaking ability was highlighted by a remarkable 100-yard pick-six, a moment that underscored his game-changing potential (Niner Noise).

His stats speak volumes. In 2023, Watts finished with 30 solo tackles and seven interceptions. He followed up with 52 solo tackles and six interceptions in 2024. His consistent production against top competition reveals a player ready for the next level.

NFL Draft Projections and Team Fits

Analysts expect Xavier Watts to be selected on Day 2 of the draft, most likely in the second or third round. Scouts praise his rare instincts, excellent anticipation, and ball-hawking skills. He excels at reading the quarterback and jumping routes, making him a threat to opposing offenses.

Teams such as the Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Carolina Panthers have been identified as strong fits for Watts’s skill set (Sports Illustrated: SI.com). The Vikings, in particular, could pair him with veteran safety Harrison Smith, allowing Watts to develop without immediate pressure. The Buccaneers might need immediate impact at safety, offering Watts a starting opportunity alongside Antoine Winfield.

Strengths and Room for Growth

Watts’s strengths as a safety are clear. He displays rapid diagnosis of plays, excellent range in coverage, and a knack for causing turnovers. His ability to line up in multiple spots—deep safety, box, or even over the slot—makes him scheme-versatile, an asset in today’s NFL (DolphinsTalk).

However, some scouts have noted that Watts can be overaggressive, occasionally missing tackles in the open field. Improving his consistency in run support and tackling technique could help him reach a Pro Bowl level. Despite these areas for improvement, his combination of intelligence and competitiveness will likely lead to early contributions in the NFL.

Why Xavier Watts Is an Ideal Pick

NFL teams covet safeties who can do it all—cover, tackle, and make impact plays. Xavier Watts checks every box for a modern NFL defense. His leadership, preparation, and on-field awareness make him not just a safe selection, but a potential long-term starter.

For franchises seeking a dynamic defender in the 2025 NFL Draft, Xavier Watts represents both immediate upside and lasting value.

Interested in which teams could land Xavier Watts in the draft? Check out the 3 Best NFL Team Fits and learn why he is the perfect replacement for top NFL defenses on Niner Noise.