New opportunities are exciting for offensive lineman Michael Levelle Watkins as he embarks on an adventure with the San Diego State Aztecs football program. 

Sometimes life doesn’t go the way you think it will.

You can diligently plan all you want, but there are just times when a change is needed.

For offensive lineman Michael Levelle Watkins, he pondered this very thing. Did he need to make a change?

The 2024 high school graduate joined the University of Washington with hopes of playing his entire career there. After a season of uncertainties, it was time for change. Watkins put his name in the NCAA transfer portal, and the San Diego State Aztecs came knocking. A move to Southern California may be just what Watkins needs.

Michael Levelle Watkins is from Glendale, Arizona, and is excited to remain on the West Coast and reasonably close to friends and family.

The 6-foot-3, 285-lb lineman brings great size and a lot of energy to The Mesa. Watkins is motivated to play after failing to earn much playing time with the Huskies last season. He is hungry, and that is a great thing for San Diego State.

Family is a big thing for Michael Levelle Watkins. Upon visiting the Aztecs, he felt that energy right away. The big lineman is not the first to claim this while stepping onto that campus at SDSU. Sean Lewis is doing well in creating that vibe as he continues establishing the school as a powerhouse on the West Coast.

Here is more from Watkins as he explains why he chose SDSU and what is expected from him.

How was your time at the University of Washington? 

“My time at Washington was great. It was a new atmosphere coming from Arizona, but the fans treated me well, and it was fun playing there. I’m going to miss my brothers on the team, but I’m sure they’re going to do great this year.”

What made you transfer from the program?

“It was just looking at the direction of my career, and I didn’t think playing at Washington was going to keep me on the plan I had for myself and my future. It’s a great program, just not what I specifically needed, so it was just time to look for something new.”

Why SDSU? What about the school made it your choice?

“Many reasons. I think I clicked with the coaches pretty fast. I feel like I was able to communicate ball and my position easily, and it just looked like I can really find my path there.”

Which coaches at SDSU have you bonded with?

“I think the entire staff. I bonded with them pretty fast. They’ve all had connections with each other for a long time, and it looks like they have really good relationships with each other. That family aspect really made me feel I can be at home there.”

Did playing defense in high school help you on the offensive line now?

“Yeah, you just kind of get an understanding of what a defense is doing. I’m able to understand both sides of the ball from that, and it makes it easier to counter what the defense is going to do on the offensive side of the ball.”

How important is chemistry for a cohesive offensive line?

“I think it’s almost the most important thing. An offensive line that is able to communicate with each other well, and almost has its own language, is an offensive line that is able to counter defenses very well.”

Describe your style of play to someone who hasn’t seen you play.

“I describe myself as very powerful and explosive. Someone who’s never watched me before would be able to spot me because of just how much I’m running around and have energy on the field.”

How excited are you for the opportunity at SDSU?

“I’m very excited, it looks like the team’s relationship is very strong, and I hope I can make an impact as we’re building to have a great season. So, I’m excited to get to know my new teammates more.”

What is your greatest strength in the game?

“I don’t think I have one specific attribute that is best, but I take a lot of pride in my ability to have a lot of energy, and hopefully that will be contagious through my team. I think it just makes winning that much more valuable when you have fun through it all.”

What do you feel you need to improve upon in the game?

“I think I always will have something to improve. I’ll never be perfect, but I think these coaches will know how to improve my game, and I’m ready for what that holds.”

What is your biggest motivation in the game? Internal? Parents? Coaches?

“I think everything is my motivation. My family is a big reason, and I try to represent them through everything. But, I think I have a lot of love and joy to spread in this game. The pursuit to make people feel happy through playing ball is what fulfills me the most. While representing god through everything I do.”

What are your thoughts on San Diego and the SDSU campus?

“It’s gorgeous. Nothing like I’ve seen before. The buildings, the nature, the people. It’s a really cool atmosphere to find yourself in.”

What are your goals for the upcoming season?

“I have many goals for my career and this season, but the biggest is to keep improving my game and make sure I have a positive impact wherever I am. Now that is San Diego State. Go Aztecs!”

James Clark

James was born and raised in America’s Finest City. He is a passionate baseball fan with even more passion towards his hometown Padres. James has written about the Padres and their prospects for over a decade. He also writes about San Diego State as well as other local sports. James is the Editor-In-Chief of EastVillageTimes.com. Always striving to bring you the highest quality in San Diego Sports News. Original content, with original ideas, that’s our motto. Enjoy.