Xavier Watts’ confidence soars on Notre Dame football Pro Day: ‘There’s nobody like me’

Xavier Watts’ Confidence Soars on Notre Dame Football Pro Day: ‘There’s Nobody Like Me’

Notre Dame’s Pro Day is always a highly anticipated event, not just for the players looking to showcase their skills, but also for the coaching staff, scouts, and media attending to see which players could take the next step toward an NFL career. For Notre Dame football, Pro Day offers an opportunity for prospects to demonstrate their athleticism, work ethic, and leadership potential. Among those players eager to make an impression at the 2025 Pro Day was Xavier Watts, the dynamic and versatile safety who has become one of the most exciting prospects to come out of South Bend in recent years.

Watts, who had been a standout at Notre Dame during his time with the Fighting Irish, arrived at Pro Day with a renewed sense of confidence, having shown his skills in a way that few could have anticipated just a few years ago. Known for his tremendous athleticism, ball-hawking ability, and leadership on the field, Watts used the Pro Day stage not just to showcase his physical talents but to make a bold statement about his place in the game.

“I know what I bring to the table,” Watts confidently declared. “There’s nobody like me.”

This statement was not just a display of raw self-assurance; it was a reflection of the growth Watts had undergone during his time at Notre Dame, a journey that transformed him from a promising but raw talent into a player with the skills and mindset to excel at the next level. His confidence at Pro Day was earned through hard work, dedication, and an unwavering belief in his unique set of skills. Let’s take a deeper look at Watts’ journey to this moment, the standout performance at Pro Day, and why he has the confidence to back up his bold statement.

A Journey of Transformation: From Wide Receiver to Safety

Xavier Watts’ journey to Notre Dame’s Pro Day was anything but conventional. While many recruits are identified early on as either offensive or defensive players, Watts’ path to safety was a winding one that saw him start his college career as a wide receiver. Hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, Watts was known for his explosive athleticism, speed, and playmaking ability in high school, where he was a standout wide receiver. His recruitment to Notre Dame, however, took a turn when he was asked to switch positions to safety.

Initially, it was a difficult adjustment. Watts had always seen himself as an offensive player, and transitioning to defense was a challenge that required him to develop an entirely new set of skills. Yet, what sets Watts apart is his ability to adapt and thrive. His instincts as a receiver translated well to the safety position, allowing him to anticipate plays, track the ball in the air, and be a key figure in coverage situations.

Watts quickly made a name for himself as a safety with elite coverage skills, excelling in both man and zone schemes. His background as a wide receiver gave him a unique understanding of how offensive players think and operate, making him an invaluable asset to Notre Dame’s defense. He became known for his high football IQ, exceptional range, and ability to make game-changing plays. His transition from offense to defense, however, was not easy, and it required Watts to not only learn new techniques but also embrace the mentality of a defensive player.

His versatility and athleticism were key factors in his development at Notre Dame. Watts’ ability to excel in multiple facets of the game—whether it was as a coverage safety, a box safety, or even a nickel cornerback—allowed him to be a crucial piece of the Fighting Irish defense. His diverse skill set and capacity to adapt to various positions made him one of the most valuable players on the roster.

From Special Teams to Defensive Star: Watts’ Impact on Notre Dame

In his early years at Notre Dame, Watts demonstrated his value on special teams, contributing to a unit that was known for its physicality and hustle. His ability to make key tackles and display excellent coverage skills on special teams caught the attention of the coaching staff and set the stage for his eventual rise as a defensive star.

By his sophomore and junior seasons, Watts began to establish himself as a regular in the starting lineup. His ball-hawking skills became a major part of the Notre Dame defense, as he was often in the right place at the right time, making plays in critical situations. His instincts and playmaking ability were apparent to anyone watching, and his development over the years was a testament to his hard work and willingness to embrace the challenges of playing at a high level.

Watts’ athleticism and intelligence on the field made him an intriguing prospect for the NFL. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways—from stopping the run to covering tight ends and wide receivers—made him a highly sought-after player, not just for his physical tools, but for his mental approach to the game.

It was during this time that Watts began to truly embrace the mentality that would define his Pro Day performance. His growth from a raw athlete with raw potential to a highly skilled and versatile defensive back was evident, and it was clear that his confidence in his abilities was growing. It was not just his skills that had improved; it was his belief in himself and his place in the game.

Pro Day Performance: A Statement of Confidence

When Watts took the field for Notre Dame’s 2025 Pro Day, there was a palpable sense of excitement surrounding his performance. NFL scouts and coaches had gathered in South Bend to evaluate potential future stars, and Watts was ready to make a statement. The pressure was on, but Watts embraced it.

Watts’ performance at Pro Day was one for the books. He was a standout in every drill, showcasing his speed, agility, and explosive athleticism. His 40-yard dash time, which clocked in under 4.4 seconds, caught the attention of every scout in the building. His ability to move with ease through drills demonstrated his elite footwork and balance, key traits for a player who had to cover multiple roles in the secondary during his college career.

In the positional drills, Watts displayed exceptional technique, fluid movement, and ball skills that made him stand out. His ability to read the quarterback and react quickly during drills showed just how much his football IQ had evolved over the years. It was evident that Watts was a complete player—one who could excel in any system and bring immediate impact to an NFL defense.

But it was his confidence that truly set him apart. When asked about his Pro Day performance, Watts’ response was clear and unwavering: “There’s nobody like me.” This statement wasn’t just about arrogance; it was a reflection of his belief in his unique skill set. Watts knew that his combination of speed, athleticism, football intelligence, and versatility made him a rare talent. He wasn’t simply a product of good coaching or natural athleticism; he was a player who had crafted his own identity and was ready to show the world that he was ready to take on the next challenge—at the highest level.

The Confidence to Back Up His Words

Watts’ bold statement at Pro Day didn’t go unnoticed, and it’s important to examine why he was so confident in making such a claim. What sets Xavier Watts apart from other players at his position isn’t just his physical attributes; it’s his mental toughness and his understanding of the game. Watts has always been a student of the game, and that has allowed him to anticipate plays, read offenses, and position himself for success better than most players at his position.

Watts has also shown the ability to step up in big moments, making crucial interceptions and tackles that have turned the tide of games. His clutch performances on the field have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches, and it’s this confidence in his ability to perform when the stakes are highest that gives him the belief that there is nobody else like him.

His journey from wide receiver to one of the top defensive prospects is also a testament to his resilience and adaptability. Many players would have faltered in the face of such a dramatic positional change, but Watts took it in stride, using it as an opportunity to learn and grow. His work ethic, focus, and determination to improve have shaped him into a player who knows he can handle whatever challenges come his way—whether it’s facing elite receivers in the NFL or proving himself at Pro Day.

What’s Next for Xavier Watts?

As Watts continues to generate buzz in the lead-up to the NFL Draft, his confidence and performance at Pro Day have solidified his status as one of the top prospects in the upcoming draft class. He has the ability to play in multiple positions in the secondary, offering value to NFL teams looking for versatility and playmaking ability. Teams will undoubtedly be intrigued by his rare combination of athleticism and intelligence, and his performance at Pro Day will only help boost his stock.

Xavier Watts is no longer just a player with potential—he’s a player with a proven track record, the skills to back up his bold statements, and the confidence to take his game to the next level. His journey from wide receiver to safety, from raw talent to seasoned veteran, is a testament to his commitment and determination. And when he said, “There’s nobody like me,” he wasn’t just talking about his athleticism—he was talking about the unique journey that has shaped him into the player he is today.

As Watts looks toward his future in the NFL, one thing is certain: there is no doubt that he is ready for the challenge. There may be other talented players in the draft class, but none have taken the same path or demonstrated the same level of confidence, adaptability, and growth that Watts has shown. For Xavier Watts, this is only the beginning. The sky’s the limit, and he knows it.