NFL analyst says Falcons' third-round pick could play 'key role' in 2025
Since general manager Terry Fontenot arrived in Atlanta, the Falcons' first-round selections have been must-see TV. From drafting a tight end in the top five, to selecting a quarterback just weeks after giving Kirk Cousins $100 million in guaranteed money, the Falcons have kept their fans guessing on Day 1 of the draft.
The Falcons made another bold move in 2025 by taking two edge rushers in the first round. After landing Georgia standout Jalon Walker at pick No. 15, the team traded back into the first round to acquire Tennessee star James Pearce Jr. at pick No. 26.
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While many NFL analysts criticized Atlanta for giving up a future first-round pick to the Los Angeles Rams, few seemed to realize the team received a 2025 third-round pick in return. The Falcons later traded that third-rounder along with a future fifth-round pick to move up for Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts.
The Fighting Irish standout was considered one of the biggest steals on Day 2 of the 2025 NFL draft. Watts was ranked as the 36th player on PFF's big board and the Falcons drafted him at pick No. 96 overall.
Considering Atlanta did not re-sign Justin Simmons, the team was lucky to land a potential difference-maker in Round 3. Even though the Falcons signed free agent Jordan Fuller to start at safety, Watts may be too talented to keep off the field.
NFL analyst thinks Falcons rookie Xavier Watts could play key role
CBS Sports released a new feature breaking down rookies drafted outside of the first round who could have an impact this season. Watts was the easy choice for Atlanta.
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"Watts is a former receiver-turned-safety, and the ball skills needed to start a collegiate career on offense certainly transferred to the other side of the ball," wrote CBS Sports' Chris Trapasso. "Watts counters his less-than-stellar speed and suddenness with impeccable football smarts and keen instincts. The Falcons had 12 interceptions in 2024, and Jessie Bates III had four of them. Watts can carve a niche in Atlanta's defense because of his natural playmaking skill."
Trapasso isn't wrong about the team's lack of playmakers outside of Bates, and Watts came down with six interceptions at Notre Dame last season. I don't think Watts will crack the starting lineup, but look for defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich to find ways to include the rookie, whether it's as a third safety or in a nickel role.
While Watts may be the team's long-term starter next to Jessie Bates, the Falcons don't have to rush the rookie onto the field this season. Atlanta also has safety DeMarrco Hellams, who missed the entire 2024 season but showed a ton of promise in 2023.
Overall, the Falcons secondary has more depth and talent than it has in recent memory. We'll see if it translates into more wins this season.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Xavier Watts projected to play key role in 2025
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