Breaking: Tampa Bay Buccaneers Sign Former Florida Gators Defensive Tackle Desmond Watson as Undrafted Rookie
In a headline-grabbing move, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are signing former Florida Gators defensive tackle Desmond Watson as an undrafted rookie, according to Greg Auman of FOX Sports. Watson, a towering presence on the field and a fan favorite during his college years, is listed at a massive 6-foot-5 and 464 pounds, making him one of the largest players to ever step onto an NFL field. The Bucs are giving Watson a real shot to prove himself, offering him a $20,000 signing bonus and $50,000 guaranteed—a notable commitment for an undrafted free agent.
Watson became a cult figure during his time at Florida, not only because of his unusual size but also for his surprising agility and relentless effort on the defensive line. At his best, he clogged running lanes, demanded double-teams, and created chaos for opposing offenses. While he may not have the traditional athletic build of an NFL defensive lineman, his strength and brute force made him effective in short-yardage and goal-line situations.
The Buccaneers’ decision to bring in Watson signals their willingness to think outside the box as they build depth along their defensive front. While some scouts had concerns about Watson’s conditioning and endurance, Tampa Bay sees potential in his unique frame and work ethic. Their investment—albeit modest by NFL standards—shows that they view him as more than just a camp body. It also suggests he may have a legitimate shot to compete for a roster spot.
Tampa Bay’s defensive line, anchored by stalwarts like Vita Vea, is known for its physicality and size. Adding Watson to that mix could bolster their ability to stop the run and dominate at the line of scrimmage. If he can adapt to the NFL’s speed and conditioning demands, Watson might carve out a role as a rotational tackle or a specialist in certain defensive packages.
Off the field, Watson has consistently drawn praise for his character, leadership, and determination. During his college career, he shed weight to improve his conditioning and embraced a leadership role on the Gators’ defense. That kind of dedication will be crucial as he attempts to beat the odds and make it in the NFL as an undrafted free agent.
There’s no doubt the path ahead for Watson will be challenging. The transition from college to the NFL is steep, and undrafted rookies often face an uphill battle. But Watson’s size, strength, and personality give him a chance to stand out. If he impresses during rookie minicamp and training camp, the Buccaneers may have found themselves a hidden gem.
For now, Desmond Watson is headed to Tampa Bay with a guaranteed shot—and a bit of guaranteed money—to prove he belongs at football’s highest level. Fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if the giant from Gainesville can defy expectations and make his mark in the NFL.