Cam Watts, a dual-sport athlete at UNM, is gaining recognition in both track and football. His name is becoming known not only on the University of New Mexico (UNM) fields but also in NFL discussions.
Despite going undrafted in 2025, his skills have earned him invitations to rookie minicamps with the Kansas City Chiefs and the New Orleans Saints. His story exemplifies resilience, speed, and an unwavering determination to achieve success.
Remarkable Speed That Captivates Attention
On the athletic track, Cam Watts has rapidly emerged as an exceptional talent. On a notable Friday, he broke a program record by completing the 100m dash in an impressive 10.08 seconds.
This outstanding feat earned him the distinction of Mountain West Athlete of the Week. Nevertheless, despite this recognition, his aspirations remain focused on football.
After transferring to the University of New Mexico in 2024, Watts showcased his dynamic athleticism on the football field as a cornerback and special-teams player. He concluded the season with 20 tackles and four passes defended.
However, what truly drew the interest of scouts was his unofficial 4.29-second 40-yard dash at UNM’s pro day. Such a time is sufficient to attract attention from any football organization.
Although he was not selected in the draft, it is evident that Cam’s athletic prowess has not gone unnoticed. His exceptional speed, developed through track training, is a significant factor in his opportunity to participate in NFL rookie minicamps with two prominent franchises.
UNM Dual-Sport Athlete: A Story of Grit and Determination
The Journey of a UNM Dual-Sport Athlete: A Testament to Resilience and Commitment Watts’ narrative transcends mere athletic prowess; it embodies the essence of perseverance.
Following the disappointment of not being selected in the NFL Draft, he found solace in his faith and family.
He expressed, ‘After crying in my room and confiding in my mother about my frustration with the arduous path I seem to always have to take, I woke up the next day feeling grateful, acknowledging that God has placed me in this situation.’
These poignant experiences reflect the challenges many athletes encounter on their quest to reach the professional arena. With remarkable speed and a determined mindset, Watts opted to take on a new challenge by joining the UNM track team.
Despite a brief adjustment period, he remarkably clinched the conference title in the 60m sprint after just one week of training with the team. Since that time, he has continued to excel in outdoor sprints, showing his adaptability and dedication.
Navigating the demands of two rigorous sports is no easy task. However, for this UNM dual-sport athlete, the relentless effort has only fortified his resolve.
His experience on the track not only maintained his physical fitness but also honed his football skills, particularly in roles that require rapid acceleration, agility, and peak speed.
NFL Doors Begin to Open
NFL Opportunities Begin to Emerge. NFL teams are certainly paying attention. With invitations to minicamps from both the Kansas City Chiefs and the New Orleans Saints, Watts is gearing up for a pivotal moment in his sports career.
He will first attend the Chiefs’ rookie minicamp, eager to demonstrate the skills he believes will distinguish him. Watts is particularly assured of his unparalleled speed, stating, ‘I don’t believe anyone on that field can match my pace.
If you want to run a go route, we can turn it into a competition.’ His assertive confidence not only showcases his self-assurance but also highlights the rarity and significance of his abilities.
Given his distinctive athletic profile, he embodies an intriguing hybrid athlete a unique combination of exceptional speed and football acumen.
These attributes are increasingly sought after in the modern NFL, particularly in positions that demand rapid coverage, explosive special teams play, and acute defensive awareness over long distances.
What Comes Next?
Watts’ journey is far from complete. Although his path to the NFL was not initiated by a draft selection, it is now being forged through unwavering determination, diligent effort, and exceptional speed.
He has already surpassed expectations by excelling in two collegiate sports. If he maintains the same level of tenacity and discipline, a professional football career is well within his grasp.
Furthermore, the narrative of this UNM dual-sport athlete serves as a source of inspiration for young athletes everywhere. It demonstrates that while not every journey is straightforward, success often favors those who remain prepared, embrace challenges, and persistently strive for progress.
As Watts embarks on this next phase, both NFL enthusiasts and college sports fans will be observing closely.
Whether on the field or the track, Cam Watts continues to exemplify that talent, when paired with determination, can unlock any opportunity, even one leading to the pinnacle of professional football.
Expert Editorial Comment
In summary, the journey of Cam Watts, a dual-sport athlete from UNM, exemplifies the strength of determination, skill, and steady belief.
From setting records on the track to establishing a solid presence on the football field, Watts has demonstrated that genuine athletes rise to challenges regardless of the circumstances.
Although he was not selected in the draft, his aspiration for the NFL remains intact, and his invitations to minicamps with the Chiefs and Saints highlight that diligence is always recognized.
As he embarks on this new phase, Cam Watts symbolizes not only UNM but also every athlete who dares to pursue excellence across various disciplines.