The Kansas City Chiefs made a concerted effort to add more depth in the secondary during April’s NFL draft.
One of their multiple defensive selections was cornerback Jaylen Watson taken in the seventh round of Washington State. The 24-year-old made the most of his opportunity to get on the field early, replacing fellow rookie Trent McDuffie in the lineup due to injury.
In Week 2 against the Chargers, Wayson made his first career start. He played solid defense throughout the game and sealed the victory with a 99-yard interception return for a touchdown. The effort earned him AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors, but the success isn’t going to his head, as he explained to reporters in the locker room ahead of Wednesday’s practice.
“I’m very humbled,” said Watson. “It’s a great feeling, but (I) got the ‘24 hour’ rule. Celebrate it, (I’m) glad that it was on a Thursday, so I could celebrate a little longer than 24 hours, but I’m on to the next one.”
Watson finished with four total tackles to accompany his interception in Week 2, he also allowed just three receptions into his coverage on five targets. Watson is proud of the performance but further discussed the things he needs to do to improve upon this season.
“I think I did pretty well in coverage (but) I want to finish better – getting the ball out,” said Watson. “(The) speed is different being in open field (and) trying to tackle ballcarriers. So, just tackling in open space, which is so hard to do at this level (and) just see things faster, keep watching film, (and) get a better chemistry with the guys I’m running with now.”
The rookie has battled his way up the depth chart this offseason and preseason. He proved to millions last Thursday that he belongs in the lineup and can make a serious impact with his play.
