PITTSBURGH (93.7 The Fan) – The last need that the Steelers didn’t address happened with their final pick of the NFL Draft. The team picked corner Ryan Watts with the 195th overall selection.
The size is something that immediately stands out, he’s 6’3”, 206 pounds out of the University of Texas. There is question of whether he’s good enough to stick on the outside or may be better moved inside in the slot or a move to safety.
“I feel like I can fit anywhere, really,” Watts said Saturday. “I feel like with my size and my speed and the way I can move in my body. I feel like a lot of 6’3” corners can’t move like I can. Just to be able to continue to develop, I feel like I could play at safety, nickel, corner. I feel I could maximize my potential anywhere, really.”
He left Ohio State after two seasons looking for more opportunities, he played in 19 games with the Buckeyes and had a couple of interceptions. After an Honorable Mention All-Big 12 season as a junior with Texas, he started in 10 games in 2023 with 38 tackles, one TFL and three passes defended (one against Alabama). He also missed three games due to a back injury.
Special teams is where he will make the Steelers roster. Watts said he’s played all of the kick units his entire college career. He realizes he needs to be more consistent, but thinks now that he knows where he will play and can start working with the coaches, he can reach that potential.
“I felt like all my work began to pay off,” Watts said of spurts of last season. “I’m really thankful to God to be in this position. I’ve had a lot of trials and tribulations and I’m just here to finally be a part of a home so I can get to work and put the odds to rest.”
“I feel like there are a lot of odds stacked against me. I have a lot to prove. Having that edge and having a lot to prove makes you the most dangerous man in the room.”