In the second round, Tampa Bay selected Benjamin Morrison, and in the third round, Xavier Watts was eliminated.
These two selections, particularly for Watts, were the Irish’s bright spots in an otherwise somewhat poor draft.
Watts, a second-round pick who slid because the position is stilln’t given the respect it deserves in the draft, is as good as any safety in college football during the past two years.
With the 96th overall choice, the Falcons jumped on the Irish standout because they needed a safety.
In addition to the excellent value, Atlanta is a wonderful fit for his skills.
As a defensive coach, Raheem Morris, the head coach of the Falcons, specializes in defensive backs. Additionally, Atlanta already has one of the finest safeties in the league in Jessie Bates, and in the fourth round, they added Oklahoma’s Billy Bowman to their roster.
Following an incredible 2023 season, Watts led the team with six interceptions, which is second in the country, and finished second on the team with 82 tackles and 10 pass breakups.
Two years ago, Watts led the country in interceptions with seven, earning him the Bronko Nagurski award, which is given to the finest defensive player in the nation.
The two-time All-American will now have every opportunity to start with Bates straight away, and by Week 1 of the NFL season, he should at the very least receive significant reps on both defense and special teams.
Watts may have hoped to hear his name called sooner, but in this instance, the wait should be well worth it since sometimes fit is everything.
