Interview: Rising 2022 Texas ATH Kaden Watts Ready for a Bigger Showcase Season

Written by Ryan Wright

Twitter: @RyanWrightRNG

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There were many rising stars on the gridiron in the Lone Star State a year ago, and one of them was suiting up for Brenham High School. The Cubs turned to Class of 2022 skill player Kaden Watts as a sparkplug on offense and a defensive stopper at corner, and the 5-10, 180-pound, athlete came through. Watts closed out the season against 5A offenses with 48 tackles and three picks tallying 148 return yards taking one back to the house. On offense Watts pulled down five passes for 116 yards with another score going up on the board.

The 2020 season for Watts promises to be an even bigger campaign cementing a role as a two-way starter while adding return specialist to the resume. To talk about all the hard work poured into his offseason for a showcase season with the Cubs, Watts stopped by the RNG Lab for a conversation.

Interview

Kaden, your athletic talents on both sides of the ball came through last season. How have you worked this offseason to push those gifts to the next level?

I workout every day. On Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, I workout with Landon Collins (Giants). I also workout with my dad and brother (Texas State) doing ladder drills, and I throw the football with my quarterback.

Lining up at corner for the Cubs, once the season ended what did you feel were the strengths to your game?

I was very patient. My coach taught us to be patient, don’t bite on double moves, and tackle well. We worked on that all season. My footwork improved a lot last year.

Which details of your skillset have you been working on as a defender this offseason?

My footwork, getting faster, double-moves, being patient, breaking down on curls, comebacks, and slants.

When your number was called on offense you delivered. Are you playing receiver again this season, if so, what roles will you be filling?

Yes, at outside receiver. I should be starting both ways. I am looking forward to being first team All-District at receiver and defensive back this year.

Are you taking on any new positions in 2020?

Yes. Punt return and some kick return. I was on kickoff last year too.

For what you do, speed is a difference maker. What is the best-timed run you’ve posted so far?

4.58

When does fall camp for the Cubs begin?

We start on Sept. 7. Right now, we are doing strength and conditioning from 8:00 to 11:00 every morning.

With all the work put into your game this offseason, where are you already seeing the improvements in your skillset and abilities?

I am getting stronger, faster, and quicker than I was last year. My stop and go on the routes has improved, and I am learning the game more.

When is the first game of the 2020 season for you guys?

On Sept. 25 against Magnolia.

What goals have you set for the upcoming season?

To be first team All-District, for our team to win district again and with a better overall record, be a team leader, lead the younger guys, and be the best I can be.

Great goals to have set for yourself. Kaden, thanks for your time today and good luck with the upcoming season until we talk again.

Thank you.

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Photo credit: Twitter/Watts family; Kaden Watts