Steelers draft pick Ryan Watts 'heading in the right direction' after move to safety

Versatile defensive back Ryan Watts, a sixth-round pick out of Texas, is showing signs he will be a contributor in some fashion for the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Watts, who played for two seasons at Ohio State before transferring to Texas for his last two seasons, said it’s great to line up against top receivers to keep him prepared. Watts has taken reps against George Pickens during training camp.

“He’s definitely an A-list receiver. I’ve played at Ohio State and Texas, so I’ve been going against good receivers,” Watts said. “It’s good to continue that, and going against A-list receivers is definitely a good challenge to keep me on my toes in practice.”

The Steelers chose to turn Watts from a college cornerback into an NFL safety to give the 6-foot-3, 206-pounder more opportunities to use his length and physicality to his advantage.

Watts got his first real taste of lining up at safety in the Steelers’ preseason opener. Even though the Texans won 20-12, it was a great learning moment for Watts.

Watts said his consistent reps at safety during camp and preseason have helped him become more comfortable.

“It’s been a difference, really,” Watts said. “As a corner, we just react and play, but at safety, a lot more communication, a lot more on defense and knowing the run gaps. I’m repping that over and over again so that I can be even more comfortable and able to play faster.”

Watts’ goal for this season is to not look too far into the future.

“I want to get better every day,” Watts said. “It’s a new position, so I can’t really foresee too much. I know if I keep getting better every day, I’m going to be unstoppable once I reach my full potential. I’m still trying to reach there.”

Coach Mike Tomlin had great things to say about Watts’ development at safety.

“He’s getting better every single day, and a component of that is communication skills.” Tomlin said. “A young guy that communicates the way he does, it indicates understanding. He’s heading in the right direction.”

Watts will get another opportunity to showcase his growth at safety against the Buffalo Bills on Saturday at Acrisure Stadium.