Could this rookie defensive lineman for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers be the key to countering the Philadelphia Eagles’ notorious “tush push”? Desmond Watson might have made history in the NFL Draft, being the heaviest player recorded at 464 pounds and standing at 6-foot-6, but the Buccaneers quickly picked him up as part of their group of 15 undrafted free agents.
Known as “The Tush Push Terminator,” he showcased his prowess at the team’s rookie minicamp, capable of holding his ground on the line of scrimmage. It’s noticeable that he’s already shedding some pounds, aiming to come in at 437 pounds for the mini-camps.
Prior to the draft, Watson acknowledged the need to lose weight in order to realize his NFL aspirations. Reflecting on his college days at Florida, he mentioned that one of his bad habits was eating while driving, which contributed to his weight gain. “Stop while driving,” he remarked when asked about the changes he was making for Pro Day. “Sticking to my goals has been crucial. I tend to avoid going into gas stations where snacks can be tempting.”
The heaviest player in the NFL last season was Daniel Faalele, the 6-foot-8 offensive tackle from the Baltimore Ravens. While there isn’t an official record for the heaviest player ever, many recall the former Chicago Bears tackle Aaron Gibson, who weighed in at 410 pounds during his career from 1999 to 2004.
Watson has been making healthier choices lately, instilling change in his diet by opting for nuts instead of junk food. If he makes the Buccaneers roster, he could be a formidable force in their defense, especially alongside his role model, Vita Vea. At 347 pounds, Vea’s athleticism is impressive, capable of overwhelming quarterbacks and running backs alike.
Watson isn’t quite as athletic as Vea, but he displays surprising mobility for his size. On Florida’s Pro Day, he achieved 36 repetitions of 225 pounds, which would have set a bench press record had he participated in the NFL Combine.
Amid discussions surrounding the “tush push,” NFL owners are likely to consider banning the play in the upcoming offseason. With both Watson and Vea potentially defending, it could be a game-changing duo against teams trying to replicate that short-yardage play. Watson, who hails from Plant City, just a stone’s throw from Tampa, is eager to contribute to the team he grew up following.
