Rivals100 2025 WR Jacorey Watson discusses early stages of recruitment

CYPRESS, Texas — Shadow Creek (Texas) 2025 four-star wide receiver Jacorey Watson has had to step into a different role for his team in recent weeks following a season-ending injury to his team's starting quarterback as the sophomore phenom has taken over behind center for the rest of the year.

For Watson, it's an opportunity to show off his athleticism and leadership skills despite losing time at his natural position.

"The first two possessions, I came in, had to stay under control, don't panic, take the easy routes and execute the gameplan," Watson said. "It came out good."

Early in his high school career, Watson has already picked up major offers from Michigan, Texas and more, and he attributes it to the work put in when no one is watching.

"First of all, my work ethic is unbelievable," he said. "That's one thing I like about myself. I work out, I stay healthy and my athletic ability is there."

In the 2025 initial Rivals100 released last week, Watson came in at No. 26 overall as he officially has his name down as a possible national recruit in his class.

"It feels good," he said. "It makes me want to work even harder. It's good."

Early in his recruitment process, Houston, Texas, Texas Tech and Michigan have stood out.

At Texas Tech, Watson is intrigued with its new staff led by Joey McGuire and offensive coordinator Zach Kittley.

"Texas Tech, I really like their offensive coordinator," he said. "Coach McGuire is the one that offered me so I talk to him a lot."

At Texas, an early relationship with wide receivers coach Brennan Marion has the Longhorns standing out.

"I like everything," he said about Texas. "He fits in like family to me. We have a good relationship."

Michigan is the out-of-state program that probably interests him the most right now behind Jim Harbaugh and his recent success.

"I love Coach Harbaugh," he said. "I like his play-calling and everything. I like him as a person too."

Houston was the childhood favorite for Watson, and with a move to the Big 12 happening before his arrival on a college campus, the Cougars cannot be discounted as a major player in his recruitment.

"I have a good relationship with all of the coaches there, especially the head coach," he said. "Me and him are very cool. It's family over there."

At 5-foot-10, 175 pounds, Watson is ranked as the No. 26 overall recruit in the country for the class of 2025, according to Rivals.