Christian Watson WR NDSU: Scouting Report

Height: 6’4’’

Weight: 208

Overall

Christian Watson is a dynamic X receiver in North Dakota State’s run heavy offense. In his 4 college seasons, he played in 51 games, starting 32 of them. He is an excellent athlete but playing in a run heavy offense limited his usage. When he got the ball in his hands he was natural playmaker and can be a strong weapon at the next level.

Pass Game

Watson has good speed off the line and excellent long speed to beat defenders deep down the field, but he takes too many steps at the top of his route and struggles creating separation. He ran a very limited route tree while in college, so he does not have much experience running complex routes. He ran mostly, 9 routes, hitches, and outs on film which may be due to the system he was in but is still a concern going into the pros. He has good hands and made some difficult contested catches down the field, but he needs to make better use of his size on jump balls. Although he has concerns in his route running, when the ball is in his hands, he excels in the open field. He has tremendous speed for a player of his size, and he has the strength and elusiveness to get around defenders and make big plays with his legs.

Run Game

Watson was used fairly often on jet sweeps and even on handoffs with him lined up in the backfield. North Dakota State did whatever they could to get the ball in his hands and he had great success on his designed runs. As a blocker, he showed very good effort and block temperament to help create running lanes down the field. His size will make him a valuable receiver at the next level with his blocking ability on the outside.

Last Word

Watson primarily lined up on the outside in college but with his athleticism, he projects best as a Z receiver who can be used all over the field to keep the defense guessing. His lack of separation and route running experience is cause for concern and will likely result in Watson beginning his career as a number 2 receiver. If he can improve these traits though, he has the physical upside to grow into a very strong number 1 option. His play-making ability will allow him to be very valuable on 3rd downs and he has experience in the return game on special teams.

One-Liner: Christian Watson has incredible athleticism and play-making ability for a player of his size, but his lack of separation on his routes needs to be improved before he can be a reliable outside receiver.

Grade: 6.4 (Role Playing Starter)

Games Watched: 2021 – Missouri State, South Dakota, Eastern Washington, Northern Iowa, South Dakota State

Team Fits: Atlanta Falcons, New York Jets, Buffalo Bills