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The Atlanta Falcons' 2025 draft class is looking better with each passing week, and third-round pick Xavier Watts might be the biggest steal of the entire class. The rookie safety intercepted Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford twice on Monday night to propel the Falcons to a 27-24 victory.
Watts leads all rookies with five interceptions this season. His second pick on Monday night tied him with NFL legend Deion Sanders for the most interceptions by a rookie in Falcons history. Sanders was arguably the best cornerback in league history, and the gold standard for playmaking defensive backs.
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The Falcons used the pick they acquired in the James Pearce Jr. trade to move up and get Watts with the 96th overall selection. General manager Terry Fontenot has received plenty of criticism for his inability to draft impact players on defense, but he hit a few home runs in 2025.
The fact that Watts stepped up against the Rams, who've been relentlessly praised for their perceived finessing of the Falcons in the Pearce trade, makes this night's win that much sweeter.
Falcons head coach Raheem Morris gave a game ball to Watts following Monday night's victory. Watch Morris' full locker room speech, as shared by the team's YouTube channel below.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Falcons DB Xavier Watts ties Deion Sanders rookie INT record
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