Coming soon!

We're taking a short break while we put the finishing touches on a fresh, new way of delivering Nebraska athletics content and stories. Visit HailVarsity.com soon to experience the next evolution of Huskers sports coverage.
Xavier Watts from Omaha Burke celebrates after touchdown
Photo Credit: John S. Peterson

Nebraska Recruiting: Omaha Burke Standout Xavier Watts a Must Get

February 21, 2019

Recruiting never stops and it’s easy to miss the top stories day-to-day. Recruiting analyst Greg Smith recaps all things Nebraska recruiting news, analysis and more so you never miss a thing.


The last few days have been very good for Omaha Burke standout Xavier Watts. The two-way star has continued to see his stock rise as he picks up new scholarship offers daily. Just this week, he has picked up offers from Kansas, Iowa and Tennessee. That brings his offer total over double-digits.

Simply put, Watts has become a national recruit and is firmly in the “must-get” category for Nebraska in the 2020 cycle. The reason he is a must-get isn’t because he is blowing up. It’s a combination of two other things. First, he’s very talented. Last season, Watts caught 67 passes for 1,037 yards and 14 touchdowns. On defense he tallied 58 tackles with 4.5 tackles for loss, six pass breakups and five interceptions.

Secondly, just like Nick Henrich in the class before him, Watts could be a player that Nebraska would have to face in the coming years if he doesn’t pick Nebraska. Iowa is a recent offer for Watts but Northwestern, Minnesota and Wisconsin have all been recruiting him hard. It would sting to lose a local player but it would really sting if he decided to go to a division rival and becomes a star for them.

The word is officially out on just how good Watts is. The pressure will be on the staff to land him. I wouldn’t bet against Barrett Ruud and Scott Frost but this will be an intriguing battle to watch play out for his signature.

https://www.hudl.com/video/3/7629864/5bfb0bd615f6760cfc161a04

Recruit Watch

>> The Huskers will be partnering with Adidas to host a big man camp in June.

>> Travion Ford, a 2021 priority target for Nebraska out of St. Louis, picked up an offer from Texas A&M today.

ICYMI

>> The Hail Varsity staff took your questions in the mailbag and discussed a wide range of topics including the latest of the defensive line coach opening.

>> Derek Peterson has you covered with three things to know ahead of the women’s basketball game against Northwestern.

>> Jacob Padilla has your gamer from a stunning blowout loss to Penn State by the Nebraska basketball team.

  • Never miss the latest news from Hail Varsity!

    Join our free email list by signing up below.