“From 464 Pounds to NFL Dreams: How Desmond Watson Plans to Transform His Future!”

Desmond Watson, a Florida defensive tackle, stands at an impressive—and perhaps concerning—464 pounds, and the reality is he could become the heaviest player ever drafted into the NFL. And yet, despite this unique opportunity, Watson finds himself on a journey of transformation, striving to shed the weight that could define him not just on the field but in life. He wasn’t even invited to the Scouting Combine, which makes his quest for an NFL career all the more challenging. This hefty player isn’t merely battling with a number on the scale; he’s up against a misconception that comes with it. Watson knows that his future hangs not just on his performance, but on his health and well-being. In an effort to redefine his path, he’s made significant lifestyle changes, opting for healthier meals and confronting what he describes as a personal vice. With self-reflection and determination guiding his way, Watson is committed to rewriting his story—one that goes beyond the gridiron. The fight for his future might be the most important game he’ll ever play. LEARN MORE

Florida defensive tackle Desmond Watson could become the heaviest player ever drafted into the NFL. He doesn’t want to be.“It’s been like my same problem — not problem, but my same concern — throughout college,” Watson said, via Greg Auman of Fox Sports. “I’m getting more in-depth, getting a better grasp of the things I need to do to be successful at the next level. It’s been interesting. I’ve learned a lot about myself in this process.”Watson has changed his diet and his training habits to give him the best chance for an NFL career and a healthier life after football.Watson said he is eating omelets with spinach and tomatoes for breakfast instead of grits and pancakes and is snacking on peanuts and almonds instead of junk food. That has meant skipping a trip into the convenience store after gassing up his car.“It’s definitely hard,” Watson said. “People have taught me to look at it like another addiction. It’s not drugs, but it’s addicting, whether that’s gaming, drugs, alcohol. I think this is my vice. I’m just trying to get a hold of it. Just like drugs can kill you, this can do the same thing. I’m trying to change my life.”Watson, who wasn’t invited to the Scouting Combine, weighed 464 pounds at UF’s Pro Day. That’s 84 pounds heavier than the heaviest player — Ravens tackle Daniel Faalele — in the NFL last season. It is 54 pounds heavier than former NFL tackle Aaron Gibson, who is believed to have been the heaviest player in NFL history.