NFL Draft Yearbook Scouting Report
Christian Watson – North Dakota State
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NFL Draft 2022 Yearbook
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Wide Receiver Prospect
Christian Watson #1 – 6-4, 210 – North Dakota State – Sp. 4.35
NFL Comparison: CeeDee Lamb Rating 88
Fast sure handed senior was the go-to guy for the Bisons over his career. Earned first team honors in 2019. Good lean athletic frame with speed and the running skills to be an impact weapon in the NFL. Speed to get deep regularly on the nine route and developing the nuances as a route-runner to separate from coverage and run the full route tree. Good lean muscle development and adequate functional strength, but could benefit from adding more muscle to his frame. Smooth runner moves in a gliding style, yet showed good elusiveness as a runner after the catch with efficient footwork to create space and break the play. Outstanding hand-eye coordination and able to elevate and high point the ball. Strong hands and usually able to maintain control while taking hits. Natural athlete and polished in many critical aspects of play. With experience, he has learned to run better routes with quicker cuts. Able to maintain concentration on making the catch and separate from defenders. Alert and works his way back to pass. Reading zone coverage better and learning how to find and settle in the soft spots. Adequate as a blocker, but needs hand technique work to improve and sustain.
The Numbers: In 2021, he played in 12 games and had 43 receptions for 801 yards for 18.6 yard average and 7 TDs. At the Senior Bowl, he had a good performance, especially running routes with quick adjustments on the ball. During his career, he caught 105 passes for 2140 yards for a 20.4 average and 14 TDs. At the NFL Combine, he came in just over 6’4” and 208 lbs. Ran a 4.36 time with an exceptional 1.46 ten-yard split time. Added a 38.5”VL and an 11”4”BJ. It was an excellent workout. Similar to CeeDee Lamb in size, speed, body type, AA and development.
The Skinny: Fast athlete with speed to take the lid off a defense. Developing receiver with definite playmaking ability to be a weapon in a few roles both outside and in the slot. Impact in three wideout sets early. Playmaker needs to prove he will go over the middle consistently and must learn the full route tree to be a complete receiver. Fast rising top 50 prospect on my board after the NFL Combine. Probably goes in the early rounds with the strong demand at the position for playmakers. Emerging talent with the tools to continue to improve and be a huge factor in the right situation. Versatile playmaker can provide impact in time and be a difference maker. Incredible ceiling to become an NFL star.
Draft Projection: 1st-2nd Round
