Xavier Watts’s “Ready Mentality” is already making waves in Atlanta. Rookie safety Xavier Watts, selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has been named a Week 1 starter. According to reports from September 4, 2025, Watts greeted the news with a remarkably calm and unfazed demeanor, a trait the Falcons are already counting on as they solidify their secondary.
Watts’s Composed Reaction
The announcement of Watts’s promotion was delivered casually by the safety coach, who informed Watts and All-Pro safety Jessie Bates III, “All right, I’m going to tell everybody you’re going to be starting.” For a first-year player, the significance of this news would typically elicit excitement or surprise. However, Watts’s response was notably low-key, simply stating, “All right, cool.” This understated reaction, as noted in team reports, is indicative of the “calm under fire demeanor” the Falcons anticipate he will bring to the field.
The Path to Starting: Earning the Spot
Watts’s composure isn’t born from indifference but from diligent preparation and consistent performance. Throughout training camp, he participated in numerous repetitions with the starting unit, demonstrating a readiness that impressed the coaching staff. Head Coach Raheem Morris emphasized Watts’s “serious demeanor” and the “significant role increase” he earned during the process, ultimately affirming that Watts secured his starting position alongside Jessie Bates III through merit.
Jordan Fuller’s Release
The confidence in Watts’s abilities was such that the Falcons released veteran safety Jordan Fuller, who was initially projected to start. This decision underscores the team’s conviction in Watts’s readiness to contribute immediately and at a high level. The move signals a significant shift in the Falcons’ defensive strategy, placing their faith in a rookie to bolster their secondary.
Impact on the Falcons: Solidifying the Secondary
The decision to start Watts has a direct and positive impact on the Falcons, solidifying their secondary and injecting it with a fresh dynamic. The team is counting on Watts to provide stability and instinctive play, complementing the experience and leadership of Jessie Bates III. His presence is expected to elevate the overall performance of the defensive unit, creating a more formidable challenge for opposing offenses.
Watts’s College Pedigree
Watts arrives in Atlanta with an impressive resume. A highly decorated player from Notre Dame, he won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy in 2023 and was a two-time consensus All-American. These accolades reflect his exceptional talent and impact at the collegiate level. Known for his instinctive play and exceptional positioning, Watts has consistently demonstrated the qualities necessary to succeed at the highest level of football.
“Ball Hawk” Mentality
One of Watts’s defining traits is his “ball hawk” mentality. During his college career, he led FBS players with an impressive 13 interceptions over two seasons. This ability to create turnovers is a valuable asset that the Falcons are eager to exploit. Watts’s knack for anticipating plays and securing interceptions has the potential to transform the Falcons’ defense into a more aggressive and opportunistic unit.
Competition and Collaboration
Watts himself has expressed a desire to compete with Bates for interceptions, showcasing his competitive spirit and eagerness to contribute to the team’s success. This friendly rivalry is expected to push both players to perform at their best, further enhancing the overall effectiveness of the secondary. Bates has also played a crucial role in Watts’s transition, providing guidance and support to help the rookie feel more comfortable in the NFL environment. This mentorship is invaluable in accelerating Watts’s development and ensuring a smooth integration into the Falcons’ defensive scheme.
Week 1 Showdown: Buccaneers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium
The Falcons will unveil their new starting safety combination in their Week 1 divisional showdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday, September 7, 2025, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. This game will serve as a crucial test for Watts, providing an opportunity to demonstrate his readiness and validate the team’s confidence in him. His performance will be closely watched as Atlanta looks to make a strong start to the 2025 season and establish themselves as a contender in the NFC South.
Looking Ahead: A Promising Future
Xavier Watts’s composed reaction to being named a Week 1 starter reflects his preparation, talent, and the confidence the Falcons have in him. His journey from a highly decorated college player to a key member of the Falcons’ defense is a testament to his dedication and potential. As he steps onto the field against the Buccaneers, all eyes will be on Watts as he embarks on what promises to be a promising NFL career. The Falcons are banking on his “ready mentality” to pay dividends immediately.
