2022 Countdown to IUFB Kickoff: 12 Days Part II (Lem Watley-Neely)

Written by Andrew Walker

The Hoosier Huddle 100-day countdown is almost finished as it stands. We’re officially inside of 15 days and the excitement couldn’t be greater. Today’ we’re looking at Lem Watley-Neely – Redshirt Sophomore DB for Indiana.

Name: Lem Watley-Neely

Hometown: Harper Woods, MI

Position: DB

Year: Redshirt Sophomore

Height: 6’0

Weight: 180

Lem Watley-Neely has been with the Hoosiers since 2020 when he redshirted his freshman year. Even though he redshirted his freshman year, Watley-Neely made his collegiate debut in the win against Michigan State. After that, he appeared in just two games at cornerback and one game on the special teams unit. Although he did not see any game action in the 2021 season, Indiana’s defense will be looking for depth in the secondary this season with the notable departure of Marcelino McCrary-Ball. Watley-Neely will be among those who will be expected to step up for this season.

“Lem Watley-Neely is a guy that has missed some time, got injured, haven't seen a lot of him in the past. I've really been encouraged by the way he's practiced and recovered from a season-ending injury last year. Has good burst, has good size, is a really physical tackler.” Tom Allen said this spring.

His high school career was one of various accomplishments, including being an all-state selection. He was a member of the Detroit News All-East team for Harper Woods high school, taking snaps at 13 different positions in 2019. He made 41 tackles, six for loss, with three interceptions. He also was able to nab 13 passes for 217 yards and three touchdowns while simultaneously rushing for 779 yards and seven TDs. To day Lem Watley-Neely was a jack of all trades is still underselling his talent. The man is a true weapon for Indiana and has serious potential to be used in a variety of ways.