Versatile defensive back Ryan Watts, a sixth-round pick out of Texas, is showing signs signs that he will be a contributor in some fashion for the Steelers on Sundays.
Watts, who played for two seasons at Ohio State before transferring to Texas for his last two seasons, said it’s great continuing to line up against A-list receivers to keep him prepared. Watts has taken reps lining up against George Pickens during training camp.
“He’s definitely an A-list receiver. I’ve played at Ohio State and Texas, so I’ve been going against good receivers,” Watts said. “It’s good to continue that and going against A-list receivers is definitely a good challenge to keep me on my toes in practice.”
The Steelers chose to turn Watts from a college cornerback into an NFL safety to give the 6-foot-3, 206-pounder more opportunities in the box to come downhill to use his length and physicality to his advantage.
Watts got his first real taste of lining up at safety in the Steelers preseason opener. Even though the Texans won 20-12, it was a great learning moment for Watts.
Watts said that his consistent reps at safety during training camp and preseason help him become more comfortable on the field.
“It’s been a difference, really,” Watts said. “As a corner, we just react and play, but at safety, a lot more communication, a lot more on defense and knowing the run gaps. I’m repping that over and over again so that I can be even more comfortable and able to play faster.”
Watts’ goal for this season is to not look too far into the future, but to take his development day by day to get better.
“I want to get better every day,” Watts said. “It’s a new position, so I can’t really foresee too much. I know if I keep getting better every day, I’m going to be unstoppable once I reach my full potential. I’m still trying to reach there.”
Coach Mike Tomlin had great things to say about Watts’ development at safety.
“He’s getting better every single day, and a component of that is communication skills.” Tomlin said. “A young guy that communicates the way he does, it indicates understanding. He’s heading in the right direction.”
Watts will get another opportunity to showcase his growth at safety against the Bills on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium.
