Omaha native, Notre Dame standout Xavier Watts drafted by Atlanta Falcons in third round

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) - Omaha native Xavier Watts was selected in the third round (96th overall) of the 2025 NFL Draft by the Atlanta Falcons.

Watts, surrounded by family and friends at his Midtown watch party, lowered his head in disbelief as his name was called.

“You think about how it would feel, but you never know until it truly happens,” the former Notre Dame safety told First Alert 6. “So I’m just blessed to be an Atlanta Falcon. It’s crazy to say it out loud.”

The two-time consensus All-American heads to the pros after a storied career with the Fighting Irish. Watts posted a combined 13 interceptions over the last two seasons which helped him earn the 2023 Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded to the collegiate defensive player of the year.

Watts said he’s ready to bring his dynamic playmaking abilities to Atlanta.

“They’re getting a dog,” he said. “They’re just getting a great football player and a great guy overall.”