The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have released rookie defensive tackle Desmond Watson, cutting short the former Florida Gators lineman’s NFL journey before it ever began.
Watson entered the league with attention because of his size. Listed at 449 pounds, he would have been the heaviest player in NFL history had he made a roster.
Tampa Bay initially placed him on the non-football injury list during training camp, giving him time to shed weight.
Head coach Todd Bowles even suggested last week that the team could keep him there once the regular season started, but the Buccaneers have now moved on.
Surprise after Bowles’ recent comments
The decision came as a surprise because Bowles appeared to back Watson’s development as recently as August 21. Speaking to reporters, he said the team had “some things in the works” for the rookie and added that Watson was making progress.
Just days earlier, he also spoke about long-term plans, noting, “I feel like down the line he can help us, but we’ll have those conversations toward the end of the week.”
Those words suggested patience, yet the Bucs shifted direction quickly. FOX Sports’ Greg Auman first reported Watson’s release, adding that there may not be a place for him on the practice squad either.
Watson’s weight loss battle
The 22-year-old never featured in a preseason game. Tampa Bay instead held him out, focused on his conditioning and weight reduction.
Bowles explained during camp that the priority was to “get him better, to be a healthier player and get him on the field a little more.”
Watson himself admitted in May that he faced a major challenge. “I feel like I have a lot of weight to lose and still be big, if that makes sense,” he said. Despite his optimism, the team’s patience ran out.
At Florida, Watson was a fan favourite thanks to his sheer size, nicknamed the “tush push terminator” in reference to his strength in short-yardage situations. His production was modest but steady, finishing with 63 tackles, four for a loss, and 1.5 sacks.
If he clears waivers, a practice squad role could still be possible, but Desmond Watson must continue his weight loss journey elsewhere if he wants another chance in the NFL.
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