We Are ND Nation Top 9 Notre Dame Players Since 2000: # 4 Defensive Back Xavier Watts

Some players are born to play defense.
Xavier Watts became one of the nation's best after switching to it.
Originally recruited as a wide receiver, Watts embraced a position change that completely transformed his career. What followed was one of the most remarkable defensive breakouts in recent Notre Dame history, as he developed into a ball-hawking safety and the leader of one of college football's elite defenses.
Watts exploded onto the national stage during the 2023 season, leading all of FBS with seven interceptions while adding 52 tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble return for a touchdown. His incredible playmaking ability earned him the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, awarded annually to the nation's top defensive player, making him one of the few Notre Dame defenders ever to claim the prestigious honor. He was also a Unanimous First-Team All-American, cementing his place among the country's elite.
Rather than heading to the NFL immediately, Watts returned for another season and somehow elevated his game even further. In 2024, he became a Consensus First-Team All-American for the second straight year, served as a team captain, and finished with 13 career interceptions, tying for third-most in Notre Dame history while helping lead one of the nation's top defenses. His two consecutive All-America seasons made him the first Irish player since the early 1990s to earn repeat consensus All-America recognition.
What made Watts so special wasn't just the interceptions.
It was his instincts.
His ability to read quarterbacks, close passing windows, and seemingly appear out of nowhere made him one of the most feared safeties in college football. Whether he was delivering a big hit, forcing a turnover, or making a game-saving play, Watts consistently rose to the biggest moments.
Why He's #4Xavier Watts embodies everything Notre Dame fans love—selflessness, perseverance, and excellence. He accepted a position change, worked relentlessly to master it, and became the best defensive player in college football.
His combination of leadership, football IQ, and game-changing production helped define the Marcus Freeman era and earned him a place among the greatest defensive backs ever to wear the Blue and Gold.
For those reasons, Xavier Watts earns the No. 4 spot on We Are ND Nation's Top 9 Notre Dame Players Since 2000.