The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have placed rookie defensive tackle Desmond Watson on the non-football injury list as training camp kicks off, citing weight concerns as the reason for his delayed start.
According to The Associated Press, Watson, who played at the University of Florida, weighed in at 464 pounds during his pro day in March.
Since then, he has reportedly shed nearly 30 pounds after signing with the Bucs as an undrafted free agent. However, he has yet to reach the weight goal the team set for him to join practices officially.
Bucs head coach Todd Bowles addressed the situation during a press conference on Wednesday, July 23, explaining to the Tampa Bay Times that Watson is still considered day-to-day as the team monitors his progress. “It’s just about trying to get him better, to be a healthier player and getting him on the field a little more,” Bowles said.
Although Watson has been working out separately with a trainer and participating in light conditioning drills, he has not yet been cleared to practice with the whole team. “We have some things we have in mind with him, where we want to see him at,” Bowles explained. “We need to monitor that and get him where we think he needs to be and go from there.”
The Bucs have not publicly disclosed what the ideal playing weight is for the 6-foot-6 defensive lineman, who is believed to be the heaviest player in NFL history. However, the organization remains supportive of his efforts and has provided him access to a team nutritionist and other resources.
Bowles also noted Watson’s familiarity with the Florida heat, having played locally at Armwood High School and the University of Florida, which should help as he works to meet the team’s expectations. “He’s working at it and we’re working with him,” Bowles added. “That’s all you can ask of him for right now.”