AFL: Number one pick in the 2008 draft, Jack Watts, retires after 174 games

One of the most talked about and scrutinised number one draft picks in AFL history, Jack Watts, has retired.

Jack Watts has announced his retirement. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

One of the most talked about and scrutinised number one draft picks in AFL history, Jack Watts, has retired.

The 29-year-old failed to get on the field for Port Adelaide in 2020, after joining the club from Melbourne, following a serious leg injury last year.

Watts, taken as the top pick in the 2008 draft, admitted that the physical and mental toll of the recovery played a part in his decision.

“I have been thinking long and hard about my future for a while and contemplating retirement,” Watts said.

“Since my injury, I feel my body has let me down, and I have been struggling with the physical and mental requirements of getting back to the level of fitness that’s required at AFL level.

“Speaking with Ken (Hinkley) and Chris (Davies) and my manager in the last few weeks, it feels like the right decision for me to step away and look for new challenges in the next phase of my life.

Well done wattsy 👏🏿👏🏿 all the best with the future brother! P.s check out richys T-Rex arms 😂 #2008 pic.twitter.com/GVuKWCO6z7

— Nic Naitanui (@NicNat) September 24, 2020

“I feel lucky to have had 12 years in the game, and while there have been some challenges, there have also been some amazing memories both at Melbourne and Port Adelaide.

“I’m so grateful for all of the opportunities and experiences footy has given me and the friendships I will take with me away from the game.

“I’m not sure what the future holds just yet, but I’m looking forward to some time away from the limelight.”

Jack Watts has called time on his AFL career after 12 years at the elite level, effective immediately.

Go well in the next phase of life, Wattsy ❤️#weareportadelaide https://t.co/eDx8RTJmr9

— Port Adelaide FC (@PAFC) September 23, 2020

Watts was taken ahead of West Coast superstar Nic Naitanui in the draft, but many believed he never really lived up to the expectations of a number one pick.

He was thrown to the wolves with a Queen’s Birthday debut against Collingwood in 2009 and went on to play 174 games for the Demons and Port Adelaide.

A much-loved person + player. ❤

Thanks for everything you contributed as a Demon, Wattsy.

All the best in retirement. pic.twitter.com/a5b0XalTjl

— Melbourne Demons (@melbournefc) September 24, 2020

Watts, who started a successful shorts business during his AFL career, also courted controversy after being filmed snorting a white powder off the chest of a woman at an Oktoberfest celebration in Munich.

It turned out to be a legal menthol-based powder commonly called “Wiesn Koks” sold and used at Oktoberfest celebrations.

Port coach Ken Hinkley said beyond his on-field ability, Watts’ enthusiasm and energy would be missed around the club.

“We all know Jack’s football ability, and we would have liked to have seen him on the field a lot more for our club,” Hinkley said.

“People might not realise just how important and loved he is around our playing group because of his character.

“Jack always has a way of lifting everyone’s spirits, even when things weren’t going so well for him in the last couple of years. He’ll be missed around the group.”