Bio

A Clay City, Kentucky native, Benjamin Watson brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to the Union Commonwealth University football program, where he serves as the Linebackers Coach, Special Teams Coordinator, and Recruiting Coordinator.

A 2017 graduate of Powell County High School in Stanton, KY, Watson was a team captain and standout student-athlete. He went on to play at the University of the Cumberlands, where he earned dual bachelor's degrees in History and Education. On the field, he was a four-time Academic All-Conference selection and two-time Daktronics Scholar-Athlete, showing excellence both on the field and in the classroom. He later completed a Master of Arts in Education and Teacher Leadership from the University of the Cumberlands.

Watson began his coaching career at his alma mater, serving as a Special Teams Graduate Assistant in the 2021 and 2022 seasons. Under his guidance, Cumberlands' special teams unit averaged 41.5 yards per punt in 2021 (7th in the NAIA) and 40.1 yards per punt in 2022 (8th in the NAIA).

He joined Union Commonwealth University in 2023 as the Defensive Line Coach and quickly made an impact. In the 2023 season, Watson coached two All-Conference defensive linemen (Byron Gee and Quinterrious Tanksley), helped lead a defense that topped the conference in sacks (28), and finished 23rd nationally in that category. He also coached the conference sack leader, Byron Gee, who recorded 8.5 sacks. As a recruiter, Watson brought in six freshman starters for the 2024 season, including two All-Conference freshmen—Marquelle Lewis and Cedric Irvin.

Off the field, Watson enjoys spending time with his close-knit family. He is married to Hannah Watson and is the son of Paula and David Watson. He has two sisters, Emily Watson and Allison Clowers, and is a proud uncle to his niece, Kyndal Clowers.

Updated: 6-3-25