Former Flordia Gators DL Goes Viral For Missing Practice Due to Weight Issues

Former Flordia Gators DL Goes Viral For Missing Practice Due to Weight Issues originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Former Florida Gators defensive lineman Desmond Watson has gone viral on social media after a video of him shadow training went viral.

The reportedly 400lbs Tampa Bay Buccaneers player has been sidelined in the training sessions due to his weight, which his coaches want him to cut down on. Once he's at the desired weight, he will get to train alongside his teammates.

The Bucs have put him on the non-football injury list for now.

This is not the first time he's been doubted because of his size. During his time with the Gators as well, he repeatedly surprised fans and competitors with his agility in spite of his size.

Here's the video from the Buccaneers training camp that has been going viral:

Bucs/former Gators DL Desmond Watson wants to practice but he can’t until he gets his weight down.
I’m pulling for him. pic.twitter.com/44bBZkqhhy

— rock riley (@realrockriley) July 31, 2025

Watson even showed his ability to run the ball when, in 2022, against South Carolina, he returned a fumble for a touchdown. During his three years with the Gators, he garnered 63 total tackles across 51 games.

But his weight has always been a talking point. When he got up on the scale during the NFL Combine, it read 464 pounds. He made history by becoming the heaviest player in NFL history.

However, his coaches seemingly believe this isn't the right playing weight for him, and despite his 6-foot-6 stature, he should cut down.

X users reacted to his viral video with comments asking for more clarification around the issue since he's seen as a solid addition to the defense.

One user said, "I want to know what the risk is…didn’t he play at that size in college?"

Another user said. "Tampa knew what they were getting when they signed him. We need him on the field beside Vea. Cmon now."

Another user said, "Would it not be better for him to practice and get in shape than to idle around not doing anything?"

Watson will seemingly adhere to the plan and work on cutting weight, however, Bucs fan are confused why this was not taken into account while drafting him and whether waiting out was the plan from the beginning.

It looks like a bit of a mess right now and hopefully the Bucs figure it out soon.

Related: Florida Gators Offensive Lineman Arrested

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 1, 2025, where it first appeared.