Bucs rookie Desmond Watson, at 430-plus pounds, wants to make people forget his size
Context:
Desmond Watson, a rookie for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the heaviest player in NFL history, aims to be recognized for his talent rather than his size. Despite weighing 464 pounds at the scouting combine, Watson has already lost 25-30 pounds and continues to work with a nutritionist to find his ideal playing weight. Undrafted, Watson was signed by his hometown team and is eager to learn from veteran player Vita Vea, aspiring to be a dominant run-stopper. Coach Todd Bowles acknowledges Watson's impressive physical presence but emphasizes the need for Watson to increase his endurance and overall playing capability. Watson's engaging personality and unique journey have made him a fan favorite, and his remarkable performance at the combine has further fueled support from the community.
Dive Deeper:
Desmond Watson, a 6-foot-6 defensive tackle, has set a goal to be recognized for his talent rather than his size, despite being the heaviest player in NFL history at over 430 pounds.
After weighing 464 pounds at the league's scouting combine, Watson has already shed 25-30 pounds and is collaborating with a team nutritionist to determine his optimal playing weight.
Watson was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as a free agent after going undrafted, a dream come true for the local athlete who has spent his entire life in Florida.
Expressing excitement about learning from two-time Pro Bowler Vita Vea, Watson aspires to become a dominant run-stopper, drawing inspiration from Vea's leadership and skill.
Buccaneers coach Todd Bowles has been impressed with Watson's size and talent but stresses the importance of improving his endurance to play more than just a few plays per drive.
Watson's charismatic personality and extraordinary story have endeared him to fans, who are supportive of his journey and excited about his potential impact on the team.
At the scouting combine, Watson demonstrated his exceptional strength by bench-pressing 225 pounds 36 times and showcased his athleticism with a 5.93-second 40-yard dash and a 25-inch vertical jump.