Johnson and Watson wrap their careers in Maroon and White
Jett Johnson and Nathaniel Watson set out on a journey a few years ago when they signed to Mississippi State football. Now, many seasons and tackles later the two end their careers atop the SEC in tackles and with a place in the Bulldog record books.
Watson was originally recruited as a tight end, but after careful consideration, he made the change to linebacker. Fast forward to now, and in back to back weeks Watson has tallied more than 20 tackles in each of the last two games (22 vs. Southern, 21 vs. Ole Miss). Most linebackers could only dream of those numbers, but for Watson it’s become almost common place.
After the Egg Bowl, an emotional Watson detailed what his time in Starkville meant to him over the course of his career.
“The day I stepped on campus back in 2018, it’s always been like family,” said Watson. “They really took me in. I’m appreciative of the fans. The ones that believed in us, they cheered us on. I appreciate all the fans around here. I grew into a man around here. I can say that for sure.”
Across from Watson has been Tupelo native Jett Johnson. The lifelong Bulldog fan has gotten to live out his dream in Maroon and White, and said that it’s been nothing short of surreal.
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“It’s been an incredible. A hard journey,” said Johnson, “but very rewarding. You know, all glory to God, man. It’s been a journey and He’s been with me every step of the way. Just keeping the faith, relying on him, trusting in him and it all worked out. I hate the way it ended, but man it’s been a huge blessing. I never could have imagined this is how it would have went, especially after my first two years.”
Watson finished with 379 tackles in his career over the course of 57 games, and Johnson finished with 336 over 45 games. The pair have cemented themselves in the Mississippi State record books after two enduring careers, and leave a gaping hole for Mississippi State to fill next season in the middle of a defense that will already look much different than it did on Saturday.
At 5-7, Mississippi State can still make an bowl game. However, the odds aren’t great. Either way, these two Bulldogs should be an example to any that come after, team records aside.
