Keely Watson

Keely Watson (born April 29, 2004) is an American college football quarterback for the St. Thomas Bobcats.

Early life

Watson was born on April 29, 2004, in Jacksonville, Florida. He attended Fletcher High School in Neptune Beach, Florida, where he played quarterback.

College career

Watson committed to St. Thomas University and began his college career with the St. Thomas Bobcats. He has played as the team's primary quarterback, wearing jersey number 7.

In 2023, as a sophomore, Watson passed for 2,210 yards.

In 2024, he set program records with 2,759 passing yards and 31 touchdown passes, earning All-Sun Conference first team honors.

During the 2025 season, Watson had multiple standout performances, including a five-touchdown passing game against the Saint Xavier Cougars and another five-touchdown effort against the Webber International Warriors, where he surpassed 7,000 career passing yards and 70 career touchdown passes.

In his senior year, Watson started in 11 games, completing 217 of 378 passes (57.41%) for 2,821 yards, 27 touchdowns, and 8 interceptions. He also rushed for 62 net yards and 4 touchdowns.

The Bobcats finished the season 7–4 and qualified for the NAIA playoffs, where they lost in the first round to Carroll (Mont.) 42–35.

Watson was interviewed as a prospect for the 2026 NFL draft.

On December 3rd, 2025 Watson entered the NCAA transfer portal.