SI All-American Candidate Tyson Watson Highlights and Evaluation

Tyson Watson is a defensive end prospect from Mott High School in Warren, Mich. Watson is an SI All-American candidate.

Prospect: Tyson Watson                                        
Status: SI All-American candidate                              
Vitals: 6-foot-6, 260 pounds                                    
Position: Defensive End                                              
School: Warren (Mich.) Mott                                      
Committed to: Michigan State                              
Projected Position: Defensive End

Frame: Exceptionally tall. Above-average width across the upper body. Very long arms. A bit high waisted. Lengthy, developing lower half with a degree of natural size. Ample room for weight as needed. 

Athleticism: Quick and coordinated in short areas. Closes to ball in a hurry near LOS. Strong at the point of attack. Shows adequate bend and flexibility. Lacks explosive athleticism; adequate long speed and quick-twitch power. Lacks suddenness. 

Instincts: Fast off the ball; routinely beats linemen across the face at the snap. Certainly not afraid of contact, but not overly physical. Tough to move-in the run game due to size and quickness. Prefers engaging and shedding rather than anchoring. 

Polish: Limited array of pass-rush moves; must add and diversify to account for lack of speed. Low stance at LOS, but tends to play too high. Good arm and hand fighter already, and should continue improving. Must increase power. 

Bottom Line: Watson’s natural size and athleticism afford him versatility along the defensive front, a reality first-year Spartans coach Mel Tucker will undoubtedly exploit when he arrives in East Lansing. Expect Watson to be designated as a strong-side defensive end or 5-tech, and shift inside depending on scheme and personnel. Needs development, but the potential multi-year starter.