Buccaneers Waive Desmond Watson

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are parting ways with undrafted rookie defensive lineman Desmond Watson, reports Fox Sports’ Greg Auman.

Watson, who weighed around 449-464 pounds, had been on the non-football injury list during training camp as he worked to lose weight, a condition set by the team before he’d be cleared to practice. Despite showing potential with impressive strength, having completed 36 reps on the bench, and athleticism, Watson wasn’t able to meet the team’s expectations.

Via Fox Sports Greg Auman,

“Bucs are waiving rookie defensive tackle Desmond Watson, who had been on the non-football illness list all of training camp. Had needed to get his weight down — could have moved him to reserve-NFI, but they’ll cut him outright. Not going to practice squad at the moment.”

The Buccaneers signed Desmond Watson, a 6-foot-4 defensive tackle from Florida, as an undrafted free agent. Despite playing at 464 pounds in college, Watson showed promise by shedding some weight after joining the team. The Buccaneers took a chance on him, hoping he’d develop into a dominant force in the middle of their defense.

Earlier in training camp, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles discussed the reasoning behind placing Desmond Watson on the Non-Football Injury (NFI) list.

“It’s just about trying to get him better, to be a healthier player and getting him on the field a little more.” Bowles stated. “That’s kind of where I’m at right now. He’s working at it and we’re working with him and that’s all you can ask right now.”

Watson won’t be joining the Buccaneers’ practice squad for now, according to Greg Auman. Instead, he’ll explore opportunities with other teams as the NFL roster cuts continue. If Watson lands on another team’s roster, he has the potential to become the heaviest player in NFL history, surpassing the current record held by Aaron Gibson, who played at 410 pounds.