Desmond Watson: Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Defensive Tackle on a Weight Loss Journey

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have recently placed undrafted defensive tackle Desmond Watson on the non-football injury list due to weight management issues. Watson, who stands tall at 6-foot-6 and initially weighed in at a hefty 464 pounds when signed after the 2025 NFL Draft, is currently aiming to improve his health and fitness.

Weight Loss Progress

As of now, Watson has successfully reduced his weight to approximately 450 pounds, yet it hasn’t been enough to clear him for training camp. Head coach Todd Bowles expressed optimism about Watson’s efforts, stating:

“It’s just about trying to get him better, to be a healthier player and getting him on the field a little more. He’s working at it, and we’re working with him.”

Goals and Monitoring

Watson possesses the potential to excel as a quality run stuffer in the NFL. During his college years with the Florida Gators, he tallied 63 tackles and 1.5 sacks. Bowles highlighted the Buccaneers’ commitment to monitoring Watson’s progress:

“We have some things we have in mind with him where we want to see him at, and we’ll continue to monitor that and get him to where we think he needs to be.”

Habits and Lifestyle Changes

Watson has reflected on his previous habits that may have contributed to his weight gain. In an interview, he mentioned the temptation of food while driving as one of the main reasons for his past struggles:

“Stopping while driving,” Watson explained when asked about bad habits.

To combat this, Watson has developed strategies to avoid unhealthy choices:

• Avoiding gas station snacks: "Don’t go inside the gas station. Pay at the pump."
• Staying on the highway: "If you’re on the highway, stay on the highway until you get where you’ve got to go."

This proactive approach showcases his dedication to overcoming obstacles and focusing on his career.

Historic Potential

Should Watson secure a spot on the 53-man roster and participate in a game, he would make NFL history as the heaviest player to ever compete in the league.

Final Thoughts

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are committed to supporting Desmond Watson on his weight loss journey. As Watson continues to work toward his goals, the NFL community eagerly awaits to see how his dedication and hard work will pay off on the field.

For more about NFL training camps and player profiles, visit the NFL official website.

This article aims to keep fans informed and engaged with the evolving narrative of Desmond Watson’s professional journey. Stay tuned for updates on his progress as training camp begins.