The Steelers signed defensive back Ryan Watts, one of the team's sixth-round pick, to a four-year contract. Watts, who played at the University of Texas, was selected with the 195h overall pick.
Watts spent two seasons at Texas, after transferring from Ohio State. While with the Longhorns he played in 24 games, starting 23, recording 89 tackles, 63 of them solo stops. He also had five tackles for a loss, seven passes defensed, one interception and one sack.
"Just his body of work," said Coach Mike Tomlin about what he likes about Watts. "He's a long guy. He runs well. He's got position flexibility. He plays with an edge. So those are some of the real tangible reasons why."
In 2023 he recorded 38 tackles, 30 of them solo stops, in 11 games. He added three passes defensed and a tackle for a loss.
In 2022 he was an honorable mention All-Big 12 selection by the league's coaches and earned honorable mention All-Big 12 Defensive Newcomer Player of the Year honor. He was also named to the Academic All-Big 12 First Team in 2022 and was a member of the Big 12 Commissioner's Honor Roll (spring 2022).
"I could fit anywhere, really," said Watts of his position flexibility. "I feel with my size and my speed and moving my body. I feel like not a lot of 6-3 corners can move like I can. So, to be able to just keep developing. I feel like I can be played at safety, nickel, corner. I feel like I can just maximize my potential anywhere."
He played two seasons at Ohio State, appearing in 19 games. He helped Ohio State win a Big Ten Championship, a Sugar Bowl Championship and an appearance in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game in 2020.
Watts said getting the call from the Steelers on draft night meant everything, but he knows he has a lot to still prove.
"It was amazing," said Watts. "I felt like all of my work really finally paid off. I have to be thankful to God being in this position. I had a lot of trials and tribulations. I am just here to finally be a part of a home, so I can go ahead and get to work and put the odds to rest.
"I've got a lot to prove. Having that edge and having a lot to prove makes you the most dangerous man in the room. I am ready to work."
