Graduate defensive lineman Howard Cross III and graduate safety Xavier Watts have been named to the FWAA All-America Second Team. Cross earns his second consecutive FWAA Second-Team selection, while Watts adds to a growing list of accolades following a First-Team nod in 2023.
Notre Dame’s defense finished the regular season leading the nation in team passing efficiency defense, turnovers gained, and defensive touchdowns, while also ranking among the top 10 in numerous other categories.
Cross III posted a career-high four sacks this season and earned Outland Trophy Player of the Week honors for a standout performance against Louisville. Watts, a team captain, has collected multiple First-Team All-America recognitions, reached 12 career interceptions (most by an Irish player since 1996), and was a semifinalist for both the Jim Thorpe Award and Lott IMPACT Trophy.
Their achievements underscore the impact both players had on one of the nation’s top defensive units in 2024.