4. Duke Watson, RB
Many eyes have been on Isaac Brown and his breakout year last season, as the preseason award watchlists have officially been set. However, Duke Watson had arguably one of the best ends to the season last season, as the second-string running back no less.
Watson’s 8.9 rushing yards per attempt and seven touchdowns to end the season were nothing to scoff at. It makes many wonder what Watson’s season would have looked like if he had had the whole season to work with.
Watson looks to battle against starter Brown for carries and production throughout the 2025 season. It's an opportunity for Watson to showcase his skill talents further, as well as show that the end-of-season performance was indeed not a fluke. He also has the opportunity to put himself in an excellent spot for time and production next season.
Ideally, this would be alongside Brown as a two-pronged running attack for the Cards once again. Time and results will give coach Brohm and Watson that answer.
Related: Three more Louisville football players named to preseason watchlists
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