Craig Watts reaffirms his commitment to USF
Defensive back Craig Watts is one of two four-star targets in USF’s recruiting class, according to 247sports.com. SPECIAL TO THE ORACLE
The Bulls landed another Tampa product when Admiral Farragut defensive back Craig Watts Jr. announced on Twitter earlier in the week that he would be staying home to play for USF.
Watts, rated a four-star defensive back by 247sports.com, tweeted on Jan. 18 with the caption, “BayMade , BayStayed , BayPlayed” to let Bulls fans know he was keeping his talents at home.
“I made the decision to stay at home at USF because of my parents and the coaching staff is very cool,” Watts said. “We’ve been talking for two years now and coach (Willie) Taggart is a really cool coach.”
Watts said the coaching staff made him feel at home and gave him the pride to stay and play for his hometown.
“I feel like it just made it a great fit and it’s just I wanted to stay home and put on for my town.” Watts said.”
Watts said the Bulls’ defense last season really impressed him, but was impressed with the high-scoring offense as well.
“They were putting up points on teams and it was a great time to commit,” Watts said.
Watts visited the week prior to committing and said he and his parents really enjoyed their visit as they spent time with players and coaches.
Watts brings USF’s 2016 class total to 16, with commitments from defensive backs Josh Dunn from Lake Wales and Armunz Matthews from North Florida Christian.
Watts chose South Florida over North Carolina, Indiana and Colorado.
“It was stressful at times because all these schools were calling me daily and they would come in and talk to me. I just got kind of overwhelmed with it.” Watts said. “USF, they would always try to talk to me and I think it was always destined for me to be at USF.”
Watts also spoke mostly with defensive backs coach Alonzo Hampton and said he’s excited to work under him and develop.
“I feel like I can talk to him about anything and he will always tell me the truth,” Watts said. “I love him as a player and I just can’t wait to step on the field and play for him.”
Watts says the only thing he’s waiting for at this point is to sign his letter of intent on National Signing Day.
“It’s finally over, I made the right choice. I want to stay home and put on for my town and just have Tampa jumping because this year is our time to step up,” Watts said.
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