Syracuse defensive tackle Maraad Watson has officially entered the NCAA transfer portal, and it didn’t take long for the elite programs to come calling. Watson, who logged 31 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, and a sack in his freshman campaign, is now being courted by Tennessee, Georgia, Ohio State, and Texas.
4 Potential Landing Spots For the DT
A Freshman All-American who started 11 games for the Orange in 2024, Watson offers a rare blend of immediate Power Four experience and three remaining years of eligibility. In today’s transfer portal climate, that kind of upside doesn’t come cheap, and top-tier programs are ready to pay.
Syracuse Freshman All-American defensive lineman Maraad Watson is currently expected to enter the transfer portal, sources tell @McAllisterMike1 and me for @CBSSports/@247Sports.
The 6-foot-3, 315-pound Watson a starter as a freshman last season and posted 31 tackles and a sack.… pic.twitter.com/1cHZYd1Aa8
— Matt Zenitz (@mzenitz) April 18, 2025
The Longhorns are in win-now mode after a College Football Playoff appearance and a move to the SEC. For Watson, Texas offers elite facilities, national exposure, and a proven NFL development pipeline under Steve Sarkisian. But will that be enough to outbid the competition in what could become a high-stakes NIL battle?
Ohio State has long been known for churning out NFL-caliber defensive linemen, and Watson could be the next in line. With a strong track record of development and the spotlight that comes with playing for the Buckeyes, Columbus offers both exposure and opportunity.
Tennessee may have the inside track when it comes to familiarity. The Volunteers hosted Watson on an official visit during the 2024 cycle, and that connection could prove pivotal now. Watson could see severe snaps in the SEC within could see serious snaps in the SEC with a defense
It’s no secret that Georgia is the gold standard for defensive line development. With multiple recent first-round picks and a physical defensive scheme dominating opponents, the Bulldogs offer Watson the chance to compete at the highest level of college football.
Athens might be the place if Watson seeks to maximize his NFL upside. But with Georgia’s stacked depth chart, playing time could be harder to come by immediately, unless Watson is ready to battle with the best.
KEEP READING: Clemson Tigers Transfer Portal: NFL Star’s Brother Chooses to Exit, Dabo Swinney Snags 4-Star Defensive Talent
With three years of eligibility left and instant-impact ability, Watson is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after names in the portal. Whether it’s Texas, Ohio State, Tennessee, or Georgia, his next stop could define his football future, and possibly rewrite his path to the NFL.
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