Jaylen Watkins

Jaylen Watkins (born November 27, 1991) is an American football safety for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the University of Florida. He was drafted by the Eagles in the fourth round of the 2014 NFL Draft.

A native of Cape Coral, Florida, Watkins attended Cape Coral High School. He played both quarterback, wide receiver and defensive back at Cape Coral, leading his team to an 11-1 record in his senior season, advancing to the FHSAA 4A Regional semifinals. He passed for 1,230 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior and rushed for 928 yards with 10 touchdowns. He also had 29 receptions for 461 yards and five touchdowns. He also ran track at Cape Coral and advanced to the 4A Track Championships in the 4x100 relay. He was selected to play in the 2010 U.S. Army All-American Bowl in San Antonio, Texas.

Considered a four-star recruit by Rivals.com, he was rated as the fourth best cornerback prospect in his class.

Watkins attended the University of Florida from 2010 to 2013. He appeared in 48 games, with 28 starts, at both cornerback and safety. He primarily played special teams as a freshman, before earning an increased role in the defense as a sophomore and throughout his tenure at Florida. During his career, he accumulated 133 tackles, including four for loss, 21 pass breakups and three interceptions.

Philadelphia Eagles

Watkins was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles in the fourth round (101st overall) of the 2014 NFL Draft.

On September 5, 2015, Watkins was released by the Eagles.

Buffalo Bills

On September 7, 2015, Watkins was signed to the Buffalo Bills' practice squad.

Second stint with the Eagles

On November 27, 2015, Watkins was re-signed by the Eagles off the Bills' practice squad.

On March 4, 2017, Watkins signed a one-year extension with the Eagles.

He is the older, half brother of Buffalo Bills wide receiver Sammy Watkins.