The Pittsburgh Steelers have bolstered their defensive backfield by selecting Ryan Watts from the University of Texas in the sixth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. The 195th overall pick, Watts expressed his excitement about joining the Steelers organization and his determination to prove himself.

Watts, who spent two seasons at Texas after transferring from Ohio State, showcased his talents in 24 games, with 23 starts. During his time with the Longhorns, he recorded an impressive 89 tackles, 63 of which were solo stops. Additionally, Watts contributed five tackles for a loss, seven passes defensed, one interception, and one sack.

In 2023, Watts stood out by delivering 38 tackles, 30 of them solo stops, in 11 games. He also contributed three passes defensed and a tackle for a loss. The talented defensive back earned recognition in 2022 as an honorable mention All-Big 12 selection by the league's coaches and received the honor of being named the honorable mention All-Big 12 Defensive Newcomer Player of the Year. Watts demonstrated his commitment to excellence off the field as well, earning a spot on the Academic All-Big 12 First Team in 2022 and being included on the Big 12 Commissioner's Honor Roll in the spring of that year.

Having spent his initial collegiate years at Ohio State, Watts appeared in 19 games and was a crucial part of the Buckeyes' success. In 2020, he played an instrumental role in helping Ohio State secure a Big Ten Championship, a Sugar Bowl Championship, and an appearance in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game.

Watts expressed his gratitude for being selected by the Steelers, highlighting the dedication and hard work that led to this moment. He acknowledged the challenges he faced along the way and now aims to prove himself as a valuable asset to the team.

"It was amazing," Watts said about receiving the call from the Steelers. "I felt like all of my work really finally paid off. I have to be thankful to God for 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."

The determined young athlete is aware that he still has much to prove but is ready to embrace the challenge. Watts acknowledged the importance of having an edge and a burning desire to succeed, stating, "Having that edge and having a lot to prove makes you the most dangerous man in the room. I am ready to work."

With his impressive skills and unwavering determination, Ryan Watts is poised to make an impact in the Steelers' defensive backfield, and his addition to the team adds another layer of talent to an already formidable lineup.