Pros and cons of Pittsburgh Steelers picking Texas football’s Ryan Watts in NFL draft

The next challenge for Ryan Watts will involve defending receivers in the AFC North.

Watts was picked up by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the NFL draft on Saturday. The Steelers used a sixth-round pick on the Texas cornerback, who was the 195th player drafted this week.

Texas last had a cornerback drafted in 2019.

"It’s amazing to be picked by one of those 'football heaven' teams," Watts said in a statement released by Texas. "Playing for the gold and black, it’s really a blessing with all the defensive players and defensive backs they’ve had in their history. That history is incredible, and I’m blessed to be a part of the organization."

What Watts brings to Steelers in 2024 NFL draft

Watts began his career at Ohio State but he transferred to Texas ahead of the 2022 season. While in Austin, he started 23 times.

NFL.com ranked Watts as the No. 31 cornerback in this draft class. Former NFL receiver Dez Bryant, however, tweeted this fall that "(Watts) from Texas a first round corner."

Watts strengths, weaknesses at Texas

On its list of pros and cons for Watts, NFL.com wrote that the 6-foot-3, 208-pound Little Elm product has "outstanding size with rare length for a defensive back." The website also assessed that Watts could contribute immediately on special teams and transition to the safety position if needed.

Watts' speed and quickness concerned NFL.com.

In a statement released by Texas, UT coach Steve Sarkisian said that Watts is "a guy we played into the boundary and really put him one-on-one with a lot of teams’ best receivers there. He’s also a physical player in the run game who has pass rushing ability, blitzing from the corner spot. He’s very effective in the run game, as well as pressuring the quarterback, combined with having the length to force people to make contested catches in the passing game. Those are all attributes that are going to translate well to the NFL."

Watts stats with Texas

At Texas, Watts recorded seven pass deflections and one interception. He earned an honorable mention on the Big 12's all-conference team in 2022.