UConn’s Eric Watts Signs with the New York Jets

STORRS, Conn. – UConn defensive end Eric Watts (Sumter, S.C.) signed an NFL contract as an undrafted free agent with the New York Jets at the conclusion of the NFL Draft    .

Watts is the third Husky to find an NFL team, joining offensive lineman Christian Haynes, who was drafted in the third round by the Seattle Seahawks, and linebacker Jackson Mitchell, who signed as an UDFA with the Carolina Panthers.

The UConn pass rusher participated in the 2024 NFL Combine after playing at the Reese's 75th Anniversary Senior Bowl in the lead up to this year's draft.  Watts closed out his four-year career this past fall.  During his senior season, he finished with 34 tackles while making 6.5 stops for a loss with 2.0 sacks.  He had a pair of forced fumbles and a blocked field goal.

Over his career, Watts appeared in 47 games finishing with 152 total tackles.  He finished with 23.0 career tackles for a loss and 9.5 sacks.  He forced four fumbles and blocked three kicks over this career.  During the 2023 season, Watts posted a career high 49 tackles, 10.0 for a loss, and 7.0 sacks.