After yet another season of missing out on the playoffs, the Atlanta Falcons have wasted no time in remodeling their squad, especially their defensive core. They've signed a new safety in Henry Black, added a veteran defensive leader in Leonard Floyd, and added countless other players to their team.
Despite only having five draft picks, the Falcons managed to bolster their squad in the first round with Georgia linebacker Jalon Walker at #15 and Tennessee defensive end James Pearce Jr., in addition to selecting Oklahoma safety Billy Bowman Jr. in the fourth round. And in the third round, they picked Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts with the 96th overall pick.
Xavier Watts Will Play a Large Role for the Falcons Defense in Year 1
The Falcons traded up in order to pick Watts, sending the No. 101 pick and a fifth-rounder for 2026 to the Philadelphia Eagles. Having racked up 13 interceptions over the past two seasons, Watts has the potential to slot into the secondary alongside Jessie Bates III. After deciding against re-signing Justin Simmons, he looks set to play a key role in defense and challenge Jordan Fuller and DeMarcco Hellams for the starting spot.
“What stood out immediately was his motor—he trains like he plays: all out," stated Watts' trainer Augustine Ume-Ezeoke in an exclusive RG interview. "He’s explosive, twitchy, and incredibly locked in. But what impressed me most was his football IQ. Right away, we focused on refining his transition movements, especially his short-area footwork and ability to flip his hips while maintaining control. The goal was to make him more efficient without sacrificing his natural aggression.”
"No matter what was going on—media buzz, mock draft swings, or long days—he showed up with the same intensity and humility," added Ume-Ezeoke. "He wasn’t chasing hype; he was chasing growth. That mindset is why he’s going to last in this league. He leads by example, first and foremost. He also asks the kind of questions that elevate a group—he’s not just trying to be better, he wants to understand the why, and he brings others along with him. During group sessions, younger athletes naturally gravitated to him—and he welcomed that role.”
At 23, Xavier Watts has already won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy and played a key role in Notre Dame reaching the National Championship Game -- but now, can he lead the Falcons back to the playoffs? Don't bet against it.