Tre Watson pre-draft interview
Maryland Terrapins linebacker Tre Watson is preparing for the NFL draft and was kind enough to talk to us. Watson was named to the 2018 First Team All-Big Ten in his first and final season with the Terps. Watson came to Maryland for his senior season after playing four seasons (one redshirt) for Illinois.
Watson in one season had plenty of good memories with Maryland. Watson said his favorite Maryland memories included the big home win against Texas, the pick six against Minnesota, and beating his home town team Illinois. Being named All-American was special for Watson.
“The Ohio State game was awesome a great memory,” Watson said. “Even though we lost, we played a great game.”
Watson had 108 total tackles in 2018 and one sack. In 2018, Watson had five interceptions including the already mentioned pick six. The play making ability is clearly their for Watson.
Watson is a versatile player that loves football and has expectations of being a fourth to sixth round draft pick. Watson said his versatility, physical play, an ability to make and impact will make him valuable to NFL teams.
Watson is a four-time Academic All-Big Ten athlete and his intelligence translates onto the field. Watson has big plays capability that is hard to find in middle linebackers. Watson also knows that he lacks in raw athleticism, but he more than makes up with his talent.
The Terps had a rough preseason to say the least before the 2018 season. The death of Jordan McNair lead to coaching changes and a lot of uncertainty. Watson did not let it effect his play.
“I am used to coaching changes, I went through it at Illinois,” Watson said. “At the end of the day I knew I had to do this season.”
Watson along with all the Terps team felt the death of McNair and used it as inspiration.
“I will always remember playing for Jordan McNair” Watson added as he told me what he would remember the most about playing for Maryland.
Watson was determined to have a great final football season to give himself the best chance at playing in the NFL. Passion and football IQ will translate well in the NFL.
I think Watson has a great chance of having a solid career in the NFL. Watson’s play making ability is rare in middle linebackers.