Mississippi State Athletics
Football
Kelly Shipp, Associate Director/Communications
STARKVILLE – Mississippi State football’s Nathaniel Watson was named The Associated Press SEC Defensive Player of the Year, the publication announced on Monday.
With Monday’s award announcement, Watson becomes the first Bulldog to be named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year by The Associated Press.
Watson, a native of Maplesville, Ala., had a stellar final campaign at Mississippi State that saw him conclude the regular season as the SEC leader in total tackles (137) and sacks (10.0). His 137 tackles currently rank sixth in the FBS, while his 10.0 sacks are tied for ninth.
According to Pro Football Focus, Watson led all SEC linebackers with a tackle grade of 90.1 and total pressures with 35. His tackle grade of 90.1 also ranked second amongst all SEC defenders this past season.
On the year, Watson produced six double-digit tackle games while leading the team in tackles seven times. He recorded at least a half sack in eight of the last 10 games, the longest streak by a Bulldog since Montez Sweat did it in 2017. Watson also recorded seven QB hurries, two forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries, a pair of pass breakups and an interception.
Watson received multiple honors for his play on the field this past season. He was twice named the SEC Defensive Player of the Week and a national defensive player of the week while also being named a finalist for…
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