The Washington Commanders are on the brink of adding a dynamic playmaker to their secondary, as reports suggest the team has reached a mutual agreement to select Notre Dame safety Xavier Watts in the 2025 NFL Draft. With the 29th overall pick, the Commanders are poised to land one of the top ball-hawking safeties in college football, addressing a critical need in their defense.
Filling a Void in Washington’s Secondary
Despite finishing the 2024 season with a positive turnover margin, the Commanders’ success was largely due to an offense that minimized mistakes rather than a defense that created them. Washington’s defense, ranked in the bottom third of the league with just 17 takeaways, lacked a consistent playmaker capable of changing the momentum of games. The addition of Watts could immediately change that narrative.
Why Xavier Watts is the Perfect Fit
Watts, hailed by Pro Football Focus’ Josh Liskiewitz as the “best ball-hawking safety in this class,” brings a rare combination of intelligence, anticipation, and closing speed. Over the past two seasons, no FBS defender has showcased better instincts when it comes to tracking the ball and disrupting passing lanes. His knack for making game-changing plays has elevated him to the top tier of safety prospects entering the draft.
While Watts has drawn some criticism for inconsistencies in tackling, his ability to read offenses and capitalize on mistakes makes him an invaluable asset. His presence would provide an immediate boost to Washington’s secondary, giving them a true ball magnet in the deep third of the field.
A Defensive Game-Changer
By securing Watts, the Commanders are making a statement about their commitment to building a defense that can complement their evolving offense. His ability to generate turnovers will not only take pressure off Washington’s front seven but also give their offense more opportunities in favorable field positions.
As the Commanders look to compete at a higher level in 2025, adding a proven playmaker like Watts could be the key to unlocking the next level of their defensive potential. If the mutual agreement holds and Watts lands in Washington, expect the Commanders’ secondary to become a much more formidable unit.
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