Watts ends AFL off-season nightmare at MCG

Watts was one of many stars for Port Adelaide in their round one win over the Demons on Saturday.

The club's four debutants - Zak Butters (two goals), Willem Drew (21 disposals), Connor Rozee and Xavier Duursma - all looked like they belonged at AFL level.

Recycled pair Ryan Burton and Scott Lycett slotted in superbly to their new side.

And midfielders Tom Rockliff (44 disposals) and Travis Boak (34 disposals) posted vintage numbers as the Power made a winning start to season 2019.

But none had endured the off-season that Watts had.

In October, Watts had his dirty laundry aired when a string of unbecoming text messages were made public.

Then last month, a photo emerged of the No.1 draft pick snorting white powder at Munich's Oktoberfest.

"It was a really tough few months," Watts said after the 26-point win.

"After those last few months, that day is just incredible. What a fight by the boys.

"It is just pure relief. I had weeks where I didn't want to get out of bed. I've never experienced anything like that.

"I'd cop more shit from people saying I'm not good at footy for a thousand years compared to what I've been through the past few months."

Coach Ken Hinkley saluted Watts.

"I was incredibly proud of Jack ... he's really trying to make some of those significant changes in his life," he said.

"That reflected out on the footy ground today.

"If he could have written the story it's what he probably would have written. Back at the G, he was standing up for his team.

"He's got a long way to go though so lets not get too carried away."

Five-goal star Justin Westhoff was another to toast Watts' composure on his return to the biggest stage in football.

"He's gone through a lot over the last few months. For him to play the way he did shows his character," he said.

"His poise with the ball was able to set us up."

Australian Associated Press