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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed undrafted defensive tackle Desmond Watson on the non-football injury list due to concerns about his weight.
Watson, 22, was 6-foot-6, 464 pounds when he joined the Bucs after the 2025 NFL Draft. Although he has trimmed down to around 450 pounds, he still needs to shed more weight before he can participate in training camp.
“It’s important for us to focus on improving his health and readiness to increase his playing time,” head coach Todd Bowles explained to the media on Wednesday.
Desmond Watson, defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, observes from the sideline during a practice session on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, in Tampa, Fla. (AP Photo/Chris O’Meara)
“Currently, he is making progress, and we are supporting him in his efforts. That’s all we can ask for at this point.”
Watson has shown promise as a run-stopper in the NFL. During his time with the Florida Gators, he recorded 63 tackles and 1½ sacks over four seasons.
Desmond Watson, defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, participates in minicamp at AdventHealth Training Center on July 10, 2025, in Tampa Bay, Fla. (Nathan Ray Seebeck/Imagn Images)
“We have specific goals in mind for him, and we will continue to monitor his progress to ensure he reaches the required level of fitness,” Bowles stated.
While at Florida, Watson attributed his weight gain to stopping for food while driving.
Desmond Watson, defensive tackle for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, works out at One Buc Place on June 11, 2025, in Tampa Bay, Fla. (Kim Klement Neitzel/Imagn Images)
“One of my challenges was pulling over for food while driving,” Watson shared during his pro day. “I’ve learned to keep going and resist the temptation of stopping. Avoiding convenience stores and their snacks has been incredibly beneficial. Pay at the pump instead of going inside. If you’re on the highway, keep driving until you reach your destination.”
If Watson secures a spot on the 53-man roster and plays in a game, he will make history as the heaviest player to compete in the NFL.
Fox News’ Scott Thompson contributed to this report.
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