Atlanta, GA, October 2, 2025
News Summary
Atlanta Falcons safety Xavier Watts has been recognized as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for September. This achievement coincides with the team’s 2-2 record as they approach their bye week. Watts, drafted in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, has made a significant impact with two interceptions, becoming the first Falcons rookie to achieve this since 2016. His stellar performances have contributed immensely to the team’s defense, positioning him as a standout player this season.
Atlanta
Atlanta Falcons safety Xavier Watts has been honored as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for September, as announced by the league on Wednesday, coinciding with the Falcons’ Week 5 bye week. This accolade comes during a season where the Falcons currently have a record of 2-2.
Xavier Watts, selected with the No. 96 overall pick in the third round of the 2025 NFL Draft, was named a starter opposite veteran Jessie Bates III before the season kicked off. Watts’ performance has been impressive, recording two interceptions already, placing him among only 13 players in the NFL with more than one interception this season. Currently, only two players are ahead of him in interceptions: Chicago Bears safety Kevin Byard and Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd, both of whom are veterans. Notably, Watts is the only rookie in the league with more than one interception.
Watts also holds the distinction of being the first Falcons rookie to achieve multiple interceptions since Deion Jones in 2016, and he is the first Falcons rookie with multiple interceptions through the first four games since Al Richardson and Kenny Johnson in 1980. His interceptions have occurred at pivotal moments, significantly contributing to the Falcons’ victories. He intercepted Minnesota Vikings quarterback J.J. McCarthy in Week 2, a play that helped secure Atlanta’s victory in the fourth quarter. Additionally, he intercepted Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota in Week 4 while Atlanta held a two-possession lead, effectively preventing a crucial scoring opportunity for Washington.
Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has praised Watts for showcasing exceptional ball skills, instinct, and determination to improve. Over the first month of the season, Watts has recorded a total of 23 tackles, 17 of which were solo tackles, alongside four pass breakups. His dynamic performance and contributions to the team have made him one of the most exciting players in the NFL.
The Atlanta Falcons entered their bye week fresh off a win against the Washington Commanders, with changes in their coaching staff, including the offensive coordinator moving to the field for the first time in Week 4. After being drafted, Watts expressed confidence about his readiness to compete, despite minor setbacks due to an ailment prior to joint practices with the Titans. Falcons coaches have noted Watts’s maturity for a rookie, believing he is making significant contributions to the team. His versatility and play-making ability have garnered attention from both coaches and teammates, suggesting he may be in contention for more starting opportunities as a safety in the future.
Key Statistics
| Statistics | Values |
|---|---|
| In interceptions | 2 |
| Tackles | 23 |
| Solo tackles | 17 |
| Pass breakups | 4 |
| Current record | 2-2 |
| Drafted | No. 96 overall, 3rd round 2025 NFL Draft |
FAQ
- Who was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for September?
- Atlanta Falcons safety Xavier Watts was named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month for September.
- What is the current record of the Atlanta Falcons?
- The Falcons currently have a record of 2-2.
- How many interceptions has Xavier Watts recorded?
- Watts has recorded two interceptions already.
- Who are the two players with more interceptions than Watts?
- Only two players have more interceptions than Watts: Chicago Bears safety Kevin Byard and Jacksonville Jaguars linebacker Devin Lloyd.
- What distinguishes Watts in terms of interceptions?
- Watts is the only rookie in the league with more than one interception.
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Additional Resources
- Atlanta Falcons: Xavier Watts Named NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month
- Wikipedia: National Football League
- SI: Rookie Pushing for Starting Role in Falcons Secondary
- Google Search: Xavier Watts NFL
- NY Times: Falcons Rookies Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr.
- Google Scholar: Xavier Watts
- Atlanta Falcons: Finding Falcons’ Xavier Watts, Notre Dame X-Factor
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Xavier Watts
- SI: Meet Xavier Watts, Atlanta Falcons’ 3rd Round Draft Pick
- Google News: Xavier Watts
Author: STAFF HERE ATLANTA WRITER
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