Xavier Watts has a new home.
The Atlanta Falcons selected the former Notre Dame safety with the 96th overall pick in last week’s NFL Draft.
Though the Nebraska native waited a bit longer than expected to hear his name called, the moment was worth it.
“It was a crazy feeling,” stated Watts. “I waited all night and it was good to get the call from the Falcons. I’m just really excited to be part of the team.”
Watts and the Falcons had already established a connection during the NFL Combine earlier this year.
“I remember it was a really good meeting,” Watt said. “It was cool and laid back. I think we all got along really well. We chopped it up and talked some ball.”
The former Notre Dame captain will bring a plethora of production to Atlanta as he tallied 188 career tackles, 18 passes defended and 13 interceptions at Notre Dame.
He’ll also join a secondary already anchored by star safety Jessie Bates III, who is someone Watts has long admired.
“I’m really glad to be part of the Falcons because Jessie Bates is a player I model my game after,” explained Watts. “I’m really excited to be teammates with him.” “I think it’s who I am. I’m just a ball player at the end of the day. I go out there and make plays.
“I think we’re very similar. We’re similar in size. He gets the ball. He’s a playmaker. He can tackle well. I feel we’re very similar in all aspects of the game of football.”
The Falcons drafted Watts with the expectation that he’ll help generate takeaways and he’s confident he’ll deliver.
“I had 13 interceptions the past two years and it’s not by coincidence,” Watts said. “I have a really good feeling for the game of football, and I’m able to get the ball.”
Mercedes-Benz Stadium also won’t be a new place for Watts. Notre Dame played two games in the stadium last year, including Watts’ final collegiate game against Ohio State.
“We played Georgia Tech and in the national championship game, so I’m a little familiar with the stadium,” explained Watts. “Obviously, it’s a really good stadium and nice. The city of Atlanta is awesome as well. I’m excited to get up there.”
The opportunity to play in Atlanta will also give Watts the opportunity to reunite with a former teammate in JD Bertrand, while also connecting with former Irish defensive end Khalid Kareem.
“He texted me,” Watts said of Bertrand. “I have to get back to him. I’ll get back to him and get on a phone call with him.”
With the draft behind him, Watts is focused on what comes next.
“Not a lot of people get this opportunity,” said Watts. “It’s a very slim chance you make it to the NFL. I’m just excited for this opportunity.”
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