Prospect Profile 2002: Patrick Watkins
Advertisement
By: Scott Ashton
One of the most sought after prospects among the
Class of 2002 will be Tallahassee (Lincoln), Florida standout free safety Pat
Watkins. He has linebacker size (6-4) and cornerback speed (4.45), making him a
valuable commodity in the class of 2002. Two schools, Florida State and South
Carolina, have already offered Watkins.
"Boy he sure covers a lot of ground," said Lincoln
assistant Tony Collins. "Pat can run and he is a sure tackler. He is our last
line of defense and we are very comfortable with him back there."
Last season as a junior, Watkins recorded 126
tackles (90 solo), 5 interceptions, 14 pass break ups, 3 blocked kicks and 4
caused fumbles. "I have a knack for reading the play and making a play, whether
it is the run or pass," said Watkins. "I have great instincts but I also study
film. But you still have to make the play and I am blessed with great size and
speed. Some schools are recruiting me as a safety and some as a wide receiver.
Or, I could grow into a linebacker. I love hitting but I will play wherever they
want me."
Watkins will be busy in the upcoming months getting
ready for his senior year. He wants to bulk up and get faster.
"I want to play at 200 pounds next season. It is a
stepping stone for school and I need to get bigger for college. I wanted to play
right away as a true freshman but I realized I need to be better prepared and it
starts now. I have realized I may need to sit back for a year and red-shirt. I
also would like to find a place closer to home."
Watkins has four schools he really likes at the
moment. But obviously, it is very early in the recruiting process.
"Miami was always my favorite team growing up. They
are back and I love their attitude. I like Georgia too because I love Coach
Richt and Mike (Gilliam) is my best friend. I know at Central Florida I could
play right away. Then there is Florida State. They make the great athlete even
better. They train you and put you in the pros."