Armani Watts, FS ,Texas A&M: 2018 NFL Draft Scouting Report

We are close to the finish line of the 2017-18 season which means it’s draft season for most of the NFL teams. Let’s hop into a scouting report on an athletic defender out of the SEC.

When it comes to safety play in today’s NFL, it is essential that safeties are equipped with versatile skill sets. For Texas A&M’s Armani Watts, his skill set showcases that versatility that many teams coveted in today’s game.

Watts had plenty of eyes on him over the past few seasons after playing on the same defenses along with 2017 draft picks Myles Garrett, Justin Evans, and Daeshon Hall.

For the upcoming 2018 draft, Watts is sure to be a targeted defender so here is his full scouting report.

Measurables

Height: 5’11

Weight: 205 lbs

Stats: 324 total tackles, 24 tackles for loss, 10 interceptions, 17 pass deflections, seven forced fumbles, five fumble recoveries.

Strengths

Watts has a nice blend of size and athleticism, which is easily seen on tape. Watts plays with plenty of speed and is able to cover a lot of ground very easily. Never afraid to lower the shoulder, Watts packs a punch with 200-lbs worth of solid weight when it comes to lowers the boom.

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Watts is not hesitant when it comes to filling in run-gaps and his diagnosing of plays showcases his football IQ, which is necessary when it comes to playing free safety. Watts is able to move laterally with ease when it comes to chasing run plays, as it is aided with his ability to process a run play fairly quickly.

In pass coverage, Watts has the range to play centerfield and has made a few game-closing interceptions while playing deep in coverage.

One thing that many defensive coordinators will appreciate about Watts is the fact he tends to fly to the ball and find himself constantly in the middle of the play.

Weaknesses

While Watts finds himself always around the ball, Watts showed a tendency at times to not complete open-field tackles. Against Tennessee in 2016, Watts allowed seven broken tackles alone. Watts shows a lack of discipline by often wanting to plant the big hit instead of the sure tackle.

A weakness that is coachable, but is something that pops off enough on tape. Watts has played a few positions on defense but he is likely a pure free safety at the next level.

Next: Senior Bowl top players to watch: South roster

Conclusion

One thing that stands out the most about Watts is that he consistently finds himself around the ball and making plays on defense. Watts has his fair share of game-closing interceptions which showcases his ability to be clutch in critical times.

As of now, Watts has a 2nd-3rd round draft range.

His skill set allows him to be an asset in both run and pass defense and while he may not be an elite safety but Watts is capable of earning a starting job and being a reliable veteran with a respectable career.

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