2023 BRONKO NAGURSKI AWARD WINNER - XAVIER WATTS

Charlotte, North Carolina - University of Notre Dame junior safety Xavier Watts (Omaha, Nebraska) has been named the winner of the 2023 Bronko Nagurski Trophy, which is presented annually by the Charlotte Touchdown Club and the Football Writers Association of America to the nation’s best defensive player.
Watts is the second Notre Dame player to earn the prestigious award after linebacker Manti Te’o in 2012. He was one of five finalists for the award which included Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean, Illinois defensive tackle Jer’Zhan Newton, Georgia safety Malaki Starks and NC State linebacker Payton Wilson.

[@johnnyjackson8322]

Never Fraud he truly deserves it 💯

[@geneseiter7087]

Look at the numbers. Payton Wilson did everything better. This is a FRAUD!!! Payton this award belongs to you. Your fans know it. This award is MEANINGLESS!!!

[@FurlogTheGiant]

Shut up Meg

[@DCSk8er529]

Where was Payton Wilson when he had to face Audric Estime? He got manhandled by the Notre Dame O-line, and he also at one point got ran over a TD by Estime as well. Meanwhile when Notre Dame needed a turnover when it was 24-17, Watts delivered first with a beautiful pass break up, followed by an interception that changed the game for good. He also later on destroyed the reigning Heisman winner with 2 picks that almost went all the way back. Had a scoop and score, followed by forced fumble. Sorry, Watts was more deserving