Desmond Watson Stuns NFL Fans With Bucs Practice Squad Return

Desmond Watson is back with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The former Florida Gators and Armwood High School star has signed to the Bucs practice squad after months of work on his weight and conditioning.

Watson’s comeback is surprising. The defensive tackle went undrafted earlier this year after weighing more than 460 pounds at Florida’s pro day. The Bucs initially signed him in April but placed him on the non-football illness list. He was later released in August. Now, the team is giving him another chance.

Desmond Watson’s Journey Back to the Bucs

According to the Tampa Bay Times, Watson never practiced during his first stint with the team. Instead, he worked closely with a nutritionist and trainers to lose weight. Coaches monitored his progress even after releasing him. That patience has now paid off. Last week, Watson had a workout with the team. On Tuesday, the Bucs offered him a spot on the practice squad.

Head coach Todd Bowles made clear this signing is about long-term development, not a short-term fix. The Bucs face the Philadelphia Eagles this weekend, but Bowles said Watson will not be playing against them. “If we bring him in, we think he can play, not just for a Philadelphia thing,” Bowles explained. He emphasized that Watson still needs time to be game-ready.

To make room for the new addition, the Bucs waived safety Jack Henderson from the practice squad. The decision underlines how serious the team is about Watson’s potential.

What This Means for the Bucs and NFL Fans

Watson’s signing has sparked reactions among Bucs fans. Pairing him with Vita Vea, the team’s 355-pound defensive tackle, has fueled speculation about a massive run-stopping duo. Some even joked it could be the perfect answer to Philadelphia’s famous “Tush Push” play. But Bowles cautioned against expecting instant results. The team sees Watson as a project with upside rather than a quick solution.

For Watson, this marks another chance to prove he belongs in the NFL. His journey has been defined by hard work and determination to transform his body. His story also highlights the importance of perseverance in professional sports. If he continues to progress, Watson could eventually become a key part of the Buccaneers’ defense.

Desmond Watson’s return to Tampa Bay is more than a roster move. It is a sign of trust, discipline, and unfinished business in the NFL.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Who is Desmond Watson?

He is a defensive tackle from Armwood High and Florida Gators, now signed to the Bucs practice squad.

Q2: Why did Desmond Watson go undrafted?

He weighed over 460 pounds at Florida’s pro day, which raised concerns about his conditioning.

Q3: Will Desmond Watson play against the Eagles?

No. Coach Todd Bowles confirmed he will not be ready for Sunday’s game against Philadelphia.

Q4: How did Desmond Watson earn a second chance?

He worked with a nutritionist and trainers, lost weight, and impressed the Bucs during a recent workout.

Q5: Who was waived to make room for Watson?

Safety Jack Henderson was released from the practice squad to open a spot.

References

Associated Press. (2025). Buccaneers roster updates.

Tampa Bay Times. (2025). Desmond Watson earns another chance with Bucs.

BBC Sport. (2025). NFL player updates.