NFL Draft Experts Project Day 2 Selections for Notre Dame’s Benjamin Morrison and Xavier Watts
As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, Notre Dame’s prospects, cornerback Benjamin Morrison and safety Xavier Watts, are garnering attention for potential selections on Day 2. Both players have showcased exceptional skills during their tenure with the Fighting Irish, positioning themselves as valuable assets for NFL teams seeking to bolster their defensive backfields.
Benjamin Morrison: A Cornerback with Elite Ball Skills
Benjamin Morrison has been a standout cornerback for Notre Dame, earning recognition for his impressive ball skills and defensive prowess. ESPN’s Jordan Reid ranks Morrison as the No. 41 overall prospect and the No. 5 cornerback in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Reid highlights Morrison’s excellent hand timing and ability to turn and run with receivers, making him one of the best press corners in the class. Morrison’s nine career interceptions further underscore his playmaking abilities. However, concerns over his recent hip surgery and shoulder injury have raised questions about his durability at the next level. Despite these concerns, Morrison’s skill set remains highly regarded by draft analysts.
Injury concerns aside, Morrison’s technical abilities make him a compelling prospect. He is known for his ability to play the ball at its highest point, whether he’s covering outside receivers or working in the slot. While there are areas for improvement, such as his transitions in coverage and shedding blocks in the run game, Morrison’s overall potential positions him as a late first-round to early second-round pick.
Xavier Watts: A Versatile Safety with Playmaking Ability
Xavier Watts has transitioned from a wide receiver to a safety, and his impact on the field has been profound. Over the past two seasons, Watts has recorded 13 interceptions and demonstrated a knack for disrupting passing lanes. His ability to read the game and make plays in the defensive backfield has drawn comparisons to former NFL safety Marcus Williams. Watts’ versatility allows him to function effectively as a free safety, with the potential to play closer to the line of scrimmage in a “robber” role.
Despite his impressive ball skills, Watts faces challenges in areas such as man coverage and tackling consistency. Improving his change of direction and lateral quickness will be crucial for his success at the next level. Nevertheless, his playmaking ability and football IQ make him a strong candidate for a Day 2 selection, with some analysts projecting him as a late first-round pick.
Projected Landing Spots for Morrison and Watts
Several NFL teams are reportedly interested in selecting Morrison and Watts on Day 2 of the draft. The Washington Commanders, holding the 61st overall pick, are among the teams that have been linked to Morrison. Analysts suggest that Washington may address defensive needs, including cornerback, with their Day 2 selection. Similarly, the Green Bay Packers have been mentioned as a potential landing spot for Morrison, with mock drafts indicating that they may target cornerbacks in the second round.
As for Watts, teams in need of a versatile safety are likely to consider him in the second or third round. His ability to contribute immediately and his potential for development make him an appealing prospect for teams looking to strengthen their defensive backfields.
Both Benjamin Morrison and Xavier Watts have the potential to make significant impacts in the NFL. While injury concerns and areas for improvement exist, their skills and playmaking abilities position them as valuable assets for teams seeking to bolster their secondary units. As the draft unfolds, it will be intriguing to see where these Notre Dame standouts land and how they transition to the professional ranks.
