Xavier Woods Bio
Xavier Woods is an American professional football safety currently playing for the Tennessee Titans in the National Football League (NFL). Drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the sixth round of the 2017 NFL Draft, Woods has built a solid career with multiple teams, showcasing his defensive skills and versatility on the field. He played college football at Louisiana Tech University, where he earned first-team All-Conference USA honors three times.
Early Life and Background
Xavier Woods was born on July 26, 1995, in Monroe, Louisiana, USA. He attended West Monroe High School, where he initially played wide receiver as a freshman before switching to defensive back. During his high school career, Woods demonstrated his defensive prowess by intercepting six passes as a sophomore, including two returned for touchdowns. He helped lead his team to a state championship as a junior and earned All-state, All-Northeast Louisiana, and All-district honors as a senior. Woods also participated in basketball during his high school years.
Path to American Football
Woods accepted a football scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, where he quickly became a key defensive player. As a true freshman, he started 10 games and recorded 61 tackles. Over his collegiate career, he amassed 181 tackles, 14 interceptions (third in school history), and 325 interception return yards (a school record). His consistent performance earned him first-team All-Conference USA honors in 2014, 2015, and 2016. Woods’ college success positioned him as a strong NFL prospect, leading to his invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine and subsequent selection in the 2017 NFL Draft.
Xavier Woods Career
Early Career (2017–2020)
The Dallas Cowboys selected Xavier Woods in the sixth round (191st overall) of the 2017 NFL Draft. He signed a four-year rookie contract and began his professional career primarily as a backup safety. Woods made his NFL debut in the 2017 season opener and earned his first career interception later that season. He demonstrated versatility by playing both safety and nickelback positions. Over his rookie season, he appeared in all 16 games, starting four, and recorded 42 tackles and one interception.
In the following seasons with the Cowboys, Woods became a regular starter at free safety. Despite injuries such as a hamstring strain and a high ankle sprain, he delivered notable performances, including multiple interceptions and key tackles. In 2019, Woods earned NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors after intercepting two passes in a game. He finished the 2020 season with 72 tackles and continued to be a reliable presence in the Cowboys’ secondary.
Minnesota Vikings and Carolina Panthers Era (2021–2024)
In 2021, Woods signed a one-year contract with the Minnesota Vikings, where he secured the starting free safety role. He started all 17 games that season, recording a career-high 108 tackles, 10 pass deflections, three interceptions, and one sack. His performance reflected his growth and consistency as a defensive back.
Woods joined the Carolina Panthers in 2022 on a three-year contract. He was named the starting strong safety and contributed significantly throughout the season, despite some injuries. Woods recorded 86 tackles, six pass deflections, and two fumble recoveries in 2022. In the 2023 season, he continued as a key defensive player, starting all 14 games and achieving career-high grades from Pro Football Focus, ranking 12th among qualifying safeties.
Tennessee Titans Era (2025–Present)
In March 2025, Xavier Woods signed a two-year, $8 million contract with the Tennessee Titans. Early in the season, he started 10 games and contributed 39 tackles, one sack, three pass deflections, and two interceptions. Unfortunately, a hamstring injury in Week 15 led to his placement on injured reserve. Woods’ experience and skill set are expected to be valuable assets for the Titans moving forward.
Driving Style and Strengths
Xavier Woods is known for his versatility in the secondary, capable of playing both safety positions and slot cornerback roles. His tackling ability, ball skills, and football intelligence allow him to excel in coverage and run support. Woods’ adaptability and work ethic have made him a dependable starter across multiple NFL teams.
Notable Events and Milestones
Woods’ career highlights include multiple interceptions, a key role in playoff games with the Dallas Cowboys, and earning NFC Defensive Player of the Week honors in 2019. He holds school records at Louisiana Tech for interception return yards and ranks third in career interceptions, underscoring his playmaking ability.
Xavier Woods Career Wins
Throughout his NFL career, Xavier Woods has been a consistent contributor on defense, helping his teams secure numerous victories. While individual defensive statistics like interceptions and tackles highlight his impact, his presence has supported team successes including playoff appearances with the Dallas Cowboys.
Other Wins & Performances
Woods’ collegiate achievements, including three consecutive first-team All-Conference USA selections, reflect his high-level performance before entering the NFL. His steady development and adaptability have been key to his sustained professional career.
Xavier Woods Family
Personal Life
Details about Xavier Woods’ family and personal life remain private. There is no publicly available verified information regarding his spouse or children.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 NFL season, Xavier Woods began his tenure with the Tennessee Titans, quickly establishing himself as a starting safety. Despite a mid-season hamstring injury that placed him on injured reserve, Woods contributed significantly in tackles, interceptions, and pass deflections. His veteran presence is expected to bolster the Titans’ defensive backfield as the team looks to improve its performance in the coming seasons.