The Tennessee Titans have recently hosted Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts for a Top 30 visit, signaling their interest in bolstering their secondary ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft. These Top 30 visits allow NFL teams to bring in up to 30 draft prospects for interviews and evaluations, providing deeper insights into the players’ skills and potential fit within the team.
Xavier Watts has garnered attention as a standout defensive player during his tenure at Notre Dame. Originally recruited as a wide receiver and defensive back, Watts transitioned fully to the safety position, a move that showcased his adaptability and football intelligence. Over the past two seasons, he has amassed 13 interceptions, the highest in college football during that span, underscoring his ball-hawking abilities and keen defensive instincts.
In the 2023 season, Watts’s performance was particularly noteworthy. He recorded 52 tackles, 3.0 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, seven interceptions returned for 137 yards, four pass breakups, one forced fumble, one fumble recovery, and a defensive touchdown. His exceptional play earned him the Bronko Nagurski Trophy in 2023, awarded to the nation’s top defensive player, and he achieved Unanimous All-American status alongside teammate Joe Alt.
The Titans’ interest in Watts aligns with their strategic positioning in the upcoming draft. Holding the No. 1 and No. 35 overall picks, Tennessee is poised to make impactful selections to strengthen their roster. Hosting Watts for a visit indicates a thorough evaluation process, as they assess his potential contribution to their defensive lineup.
Analysts project Watts as a likely second-round pick, with some mock drafts predicting his selection by teams such as the Carolina Panthers. His versatility in the secondary, having experience at both safety and slot positions, adds to his appeal for teams seeking dynamic defensive backs. In the 2024 season, Watts continued to demonstrate his prowess with 82 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, six interceptions returned for 136 yards, ten pass breakups, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery.
The Titans’ decision to host Watts reflects their commitment to a comprehensive evaluation process, ensuring they make informed choices that will enhance their defensive capabilities in the forthcoming season.