Justin Melo of The Draft Network reports that the San Francisco 49ers conducted a virtual interview with former Memphis running back Blake Watson. NFL teams are finalizing their prospect evaluations ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft, which kicks off in one week.
.@MemphisFB RB Blake Watson has outstanding burst + speed. 1,252 yards + 14 TDs 2023. 4.39 40, 41.5" VJ, 11-3 BJ at Pro Day.
30s w/ #Broncos + #Vikings.
— Justin M (@JustinM_NFL) April 18, 2024
Recent virtuals #Bills, #49ers, #Chargers, #Browns, #NYG, #NYJ.@BlakeWatson_2 on @TheDraftNetwork!https://t.co/FekpsZNr0V
Watson showcased his dual-threat ability, rushing 192 times for 1,152 yards and 14 touchdowns while adding 53 receptions for 480 yards and three touchdowns through 13 game appearances as a senior in 2023, per Sports Reference. He joined the Tigers after transferring from Old Dominion.
Discussing his versatility, Watson told Melo, "Just look at the NFL right now. All of the best backs, the top backs in the league, they can all catch the ball coming out of the backfield. You have to be a huge threat in the passing game. I knew that was an important asset to have. I used to play wide receiver back in the day. I transferred those skills to my abilities as a modern-day running back."
Watson didn't participate at the NFL Scouting Combine. However, at his pro day, he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.39 seconds, had a 41.5-inch vertical, and an 11-foot-3 broad jump.
"I was thrilled with my numbers," Watson said. "They were great testing numbers for me. I went into pro day with a chip on my shoulder since I wasn't at the NFL Combine. I wanted to prove to everybody that I deserved an invite to the combine."
Watson described his potential impact with an NFL team, declaring, "I'm going to be dependable and trustworthy. If the play is blocked to score six points, I'm making it to the end zone. I'm liable to pick up more yards after contact. I'm an explosive guy that's ready to score touchdowns."
Visit our pre-draft tracker for a comprehensive overview of all reported formal and informal meetings between the 49ers and prospective NFL rookies.
The 2024 NFL Draft will take place in Detroit, Michigan, from Thursday, April 25, through Saturday, April 27.