Atlanta Falcons Safety Xavier Watts Credits His Paralyzed Father for His Success, Saying “Living in a wheelchair didn’t stop my dad from providing for us”
Xavier was named a Consensus First‑Team All‑American in both 2026 and 2026!
AthleteNishanJanuary 4, 2026
This article was last updated by Alisha Shrestha on December 30, 2026
NFL safety Xavier Watts, who is now rising with the Atlanta Falcons, has parents who played a key role in his success, especially his father, who is paralyzed and has been a major source of inspiration for him.
In a recent game against the Los Angeles Rams, Xavier Watts recorded an interception, picking off Matthew Stafford in the fourth quarter.
The Atlanta Falcons survived a comeback attempt by the Rams, winning 27–24.
Xavier Watts’ defense contributed to the team’s success in this late-season matchup.
NFL Safety Xavier Watts Honors His Parents, Says “Living in a wheelchair didn’t stop my dad from providing for us”!
When Xavier Watts was just 18 months old, his father, Jeff Watts, was shot during a violent incident and suffered a serious injury to his spine.
The bullet hit near his spinal cord and caused paralysis from the waist down. After this, Jeff could no longer walk and began using a wheelchair for the rest of his life.
Xavier was too young to remember the moment itself, but he grew up knowing his dad had been through something life-changing.
Jeff’s paralysis did not stop him from living a full life. After his injury, he worked in the hotel industry for about 11 years and later joined his father’s screen-printing business.
Even though he used a wheelchair, he helped out at home with everyday tasks like folding clothes and staying present for Xavier and his mother, Fallon Watts.
Fallon balanced work, school, and family responsibilities, and she earned multiple college degrees.
Together, Jeff and Fallon built a life focused on hard work and determination.
Growing up with his father in a wheelchair had a big impact on Xavier. Instead of feeling sorry for himself, Jeff chose to stay productive and positive.
He talked openly with Xavier about his past mistakes and choices that led to the shooting. Jeff wanted Xavier to learn from his experience and make better decisions in life.
Xavier often credits his parents for his upbringing, especially recognizing the efforts and sacrifices his dad has made.
In an interview with ESPN, he mentioned his dad, saying;
everything that he’s been through to get me to where I am today is why I do what I do why go to school here why I play football while I’m trying to be great at the next level
Xavier has spoken gratefully about his parents, saying their support and example helped him succeed.
Their encouragement helped him go from a high school athlete to a standout college player and then to the NFL.
Also Read: “Behind the Boards: Parents Call AAA Youth Hockey Culture ‘Toxic’ Across North America”
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NishanNishan Dahal writes sports with a human touch, covering breaking news, athlete lives, and the stories that stats can't tell. Nishan believes every athlete has a story worth telling. With the goal of bringing those stories to life with honesty, heart, and a touch of curiosity, he shares his insights through PlayerBio.
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