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Buccaneers Formulating Long-Term Plan for Rookie Desmond Watson as NFI Stint Continues

Coach Todd Bowles has meetings scheduled to map next steps, focusing on a reserve-NFI path before roster cuts.

Image
Jun 10, 2025; Tampa Bay, FL, USA; Tampa Bay Buccaneers defensive tackle Desmond Watson (56) participates in mini camp at AdventHealth Training Center. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

Overview

  • Watson remains on the non-football injury list and has not practiced, working with a nutritionist and doing conditioning laps as he continues a team-directed weight-loss plan.
  • Bowles said staff will meet within days to create a long-term plan for the defensive tackle and offered no timeline for a return to drills.
  • Reporting from Sports Illustrated, cited by The Sporting News, outlines reserve-NFI as a likely mechanism to retain Watson without using an active roster spot at the start of the season.
  • The NFL’s Aug. 26 deadline to trim to 53 players is approaching, and multiple reports say Watson is unlikely to be on the initial active roster.
  • The undrafted Florida product measured 464 pounds at his pro day, is reported as the heaviest player in league history, and has dropped roughly 25–30 pounds to about 449–450 while coaches note potential short-yardage value once he builds endurance.