Desmond Watson, the 464-pound defensive tackle who joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers as an undrafted rookie, is facing a career-altering dilemma – and it has nothing to do with his performance.
Watson, a behemoth at 6-foot-6, became the heaviest player in modern NFL history during his four years at Florida. But with his roster hopes now hanging in the balance, his future may depend on whether the NFL bans the controversial “tush push” play this fall.
Initially brought in alongside fellow UDFA Shilo Sanders, Watson was signed for a very specific role: to clog the middle for short-yardage and goal-line situations. As PFF’s Sam Monson put it: “If tush push is not banned, Watson’s going to slow that thing down… Watson, right up the middle against that.”
The play’s effectiveness hinged heavily on having a powerful, immovable force like Watson at the point of attack. But if the league outlaws it, that role could vanish overnight.
Weight, role, and rules: The triple-edged sword
Watson arrived at Florida already massive – around 400 pounds – and ballooned to 464 by his senior year. He’s since trimmed down to roughly the low 430s, shedding 25-30 pounds this offseason.
Reports suggest the Bucs want him to hover near 400 pounds – enough size to anchor interior runs without limiting mobility. As Steve Palazzolo noted: “They’re probably aiming for 400… There’s no way he should be anywhere near 460.”
The critical question: will the NFL keep the tush push? Under this play, the offense lines up in a three-person wedge with the quarterback at the center’s back, bulldozing into goal-line situations. The Chiefs and Colts have used it with devastating efficiency, and teams have leaned on heavy-duty players.
Watson’s enormous frame made him a natural fit. But banning the play would eliminate his primary skill set and niche, putting his roster hopes in jeopardy. As Sam Monson summed it up: “Do you think Desmond Watson’s roster spot depends on whether or not the tush push is banned? … Maybe Week 4.”
Even if the play survives, Watson’s body still needs to be NFL-ready. He’s already down to about 430, but scouts believe he needs to drop closer to 400 to be effective and avoid slowing down.
There’s even talk of using medical-aid such as Ozempic to help control weight and streamline his athleticism. If the league moves forward with the ban, Watson will have to prove his value in conventional defensive schemes – a tougher ask given his profile and lack of draft status.
Shilo Sanders also struggling to win spot
Meanwhile, newcomer Shilo Sanders, despite family connections, remains in an uphill battle for a roster spot as well. Even with potential depth openings at safety, he’s competing against veterans and draft picks – a reminder that UDFA status comes with little margin for error.
The NFL owners appear close to outlawing the tush push next season. If that vote passes, it will have significant ripple effects-not only on how teams construct their short-yardage packages, but also on the fate of players like Watson, who were brought in for that exact role.
For Watson, the next few weeks will be critical. He must impress through training camp, show versatility in standard defensive techniques, and adapt to a reduced role if needed. Without the tush push, his size may no longer be enough. With it, he could thrive as a short-yardage monster.
His brief NFL path now hinges on two variables: his physical adjustment and a rule change beyond his control. No matter how hard he works, the ban could derail his prospects.
As camp approaches, the Buccaneers – and Watson – await confirmation. If the tush push is safe, Watson might just make the roster. If not, he may find himself sidelined before he ever snaps for Tampa Bay.
Desmond Watson’s career may just be one league vote away from a successful NFL future – or a sudden exit.
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