Whopping Nose Tackle: Desmond Watson's NFL Journey
Eager Rookie Defender of the Buccaneers, Tips the Scales at an Impressive 460 Pounds, Tantalizes at the Thought of Sacking Lamar Jackson
Meet Desmond Watson, a colossal defensive tackle hailing from the University of Florida, eyeing the title of NFL's heaviest player ever. Standing a towering 6 feet 5 inches and packing an insane 464 pounds, Watson surpasses the current record holder, Aaron Gibson, by more than 50 pounds, who tipped the scales at 410 pounds while playing for the Chicago Bears[1][2]. His remarkable physique is complemented by his nimbleness, evident in his astounding performance at Florida's pro day, boasting 36 reps on the bench press and clocking a 5.86-second 40-yard dash[1].
Watson inked a deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in 2025. Despite his mammoth size, Watson offers more than just a wall on the defensive line; his athletic prowess positions him as a potential game-changer for the team. In his four seasons with the Florida Gators, Watson racked up 63 combined tackles, four tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks, along with a forced fumble[1].
Post-pro day, Watson has embarked on a weight-loss mission. He shed approximately 26 pounds before inking his contract with the Bucs, demonstrating his determination to strike a balance between heft and agility[1][4]. His vision is to merge his intimidating mass with unparalleled mobility, leading to an unstoppable force on the field.
The Buccaneers' decision to sign Watson underscores their penchant for a versatile roster. The team also drafted Tez Johnson, one of the lightest players, indicative of their inclination towards a multitude of athletic profiles. As Watson progresses through his NFL career, his ability to adapt and maintain his peak physical condition will be critical to his success and longevity in the league[1].
Watson sets his sights on Lamar Jackson and Kyler Murray, two of the league's most elusive quarterbacks, as his initial targets should he make the Bucs' roster. With a modest contract ($20,000 bonus, $50k guaranteed), Watson's aspirations might have to simmer while he focuses on perfecting his craft and continuing his weight-loss journey on the practice squad[1]. Ambition is key, and if Watson can stay in one piece, the sky's the limit for a player who consistently shatters expectations.
[1] NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Desmond Watson, University of Florida nose tackle[2] Heaviest Players in NFL History and How They Compared to Current Giants' Linemen[3] Desmond Watson's Pro Day Performance Showcases Impressive Athleticism[4] Desmond Watson's Post-Pro Day Weight Loss: What it Means for His NFL Career
- Desmond Watson, the University of Florida alumnus and NFL's potential heaviest player ever, weighs an impressive 464 pounds, far surpassing Aaron Gibson's record of 410 pounds.
- In Gainesville, Watson showcased his impressive athleticism with 36 reps on the bench press and a 5.86-second 40-yard dash at Florida's pro day.
- Watson's unique blend of size and agility will be an asset to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2025.
- As Watson works to merge his intimidating mass with unparalleled mobility, he has already shed 26 pounds and has his sights set on challenging unstoppable forces like Lamar Jackson and Kyler Murray in the NFL.
- Watson's contract includes a $20,000 bonus and $50k guaranteed, placing him on a path towards proofing his worth and shattering expectations while earning his spot on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' roster.
