It seems like it was just yesterday that Pat Watkins was deciding between Florida State and Miami. The decision came down to the wire, and in the end, the Tallahassee native chose to stay close to home and play for the Seminoles. It's amazing how fast four years fly by, because Watkins is now preparing for the NFL Draft in April.

"It's a blessing," said Watkins. "I'll be relieved if I get drafted. It'll be a chance to start over."

During his four years in a garnet and gold uniform, Watkins played free safety, but there's a chance the former Lincoln star may play both sides of the ball in the NFL.

"I've been looking at receiver," said Watkins. "I've been doing a little of both. I had to do it (work out at WR) at the combine. A few teams spoke to me after receiver drills."

It's been awhile since the mid season All-American ran routes on offense, but already, Watkins is drawing attention from both Kansas City and Miami.

"I'm real happy with my 40 time (4.42)," said Watkins, "I got some good feedback. Everyone was happy because no one thought I'd do it."

In addition to his blazing 40-time, Watkins busted off a Combine-best broad jump of 11 feet and 1 inch, and also posted an impressive 41-inch vertical jump. Because he was pulling double-duty in position drills for DBs and WRs, he passed on the pro agility (shuttle) run, which was his best event while at Florida State. That is a test he will probably complete during FSU's March 16th Pro Day.

Measuring in at nearly 6-foot-5 and 211 pounds with his head-turning testing results at the Combine, Watkins certainly helped his stock in the eyes of the NFL scouts in attendance. Most mock drafts have the former Seminole safety falling in the second or third round of the April draft.

Right now, Watkins is in Ft. Lauderdale training. He will of course be back in Tallahassee next week for FSU's Pro Day, and isn't sure which drills he will complete. But one thing is for sure, he is still a family man at heart. When asked where he will be on draft day, it was a no brainer.

"I'll be at my mamma's house," he said.

Watkins played in 49 consecutive games for the 'Noles. Over the course of his FSU career, he racked up 205 tackles, 10 interceptions and 29 pass break-ups.

Talk about it on the

href="http://floridastate.rivals.com/forum.asp?sid=1061&fid=1079&style=2">Football Message Board or on the Tribal Council