Notre Dame S Xavier Watts Wins 2023 Bronko Nagurski Trophy
Xavier Watts arrived at Notre Dame as a wide receiver, but was then moved to the defensive side of the ball where he played linebacker, rover and now safety with a few weeks of cross-training at receiver mixed in there during fall camp of 2022.
Fast forward three years and the move proved to be for the best as Watts won the 2023 Bronko Nagurski Trophy on Monday evening. The Nagurski Trophy goes to the nation’s most outstanding defensive player.
The Nebraska native’s story isn’t done by any means, but Watts has proved sticking it out also works on the day hundreds entered the Transfer Portal.
“My story and journey has been difficult,” Watts said. “I’ve probably had the most numbers in college football history. I’ve had six different numbers. I’ve played offense, I played linebacker, nickel and safety. The journey has taught me you’re never going to get things right away. Everyone comes in as a freshman and expects to play, but the journey teaches you to be patient, hard work and keep working.”
Watts led the nation with seven interceptions while also adding 47 tackles, four passes defended, one fumble recovery and one forced fumble in 2023.
The highlight of the season came in October as Watts picked off Heisman winner Caleb Williams twice, forced a fumble, recovered a fumble for a touchdown and made seven tackles in Notre Dame’s 48-20 win over USC.
Watts’ performance also led to a two-interception performance against Pitt in Notre Dame’s next game and then he recorded another interception the week after against Clemson to total five picks in the three-game stretch.
“I want to thank my mom and dad,” said Watts. “They supported me through everything. Without their love, care and support, I wouldn’t be where I am today. I want to thank the best coaching staff, Coach (Chris) O’Leary, Coach (Al) Golden and obviously, Coach (Marcus) Freeman. These guys have been with me through thick and thin. When I first switched over to defense, they believed in me, trusted in me and I believed and trusted in them as well.
“Lastly, thank you to Notre Dame. The fans have supported me for four years. They’ve been with me through everything.”
In three years on defense, Watts has now totaled 101 tackles, seven passes defended, seven interceptions and one sack.
Notre Dame and Watts will play in the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl on December 29th against Oregon State.
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