Ex-Gators DL Desmond Watson earns return to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are bringing back a familiar name to their practice squad, as former Florida Gators defensive tackle Desmond Watson was re-signed by the team on Tuesday. That’s according to a report from Fox Sports’ Greg Auman.
“Bucs are signing former Gators DT Desmond Watson to their practice squad,” Auman reported. “The massive prospect has met their requirements to get in shape and can now practice with the team.”
Watson is best known for his size and strength in the middle of the defensive line. Listed at more than 400 pounds during his Florida career, Watson’s conditioning was often a topic of conversation; however, his ability to eat up blocks and collapse the pocket made him a key piece of the Gators’ defense.
The Buccaneers originally gave Watson a shot after he went undrafted, and now he will have another opportunity to develop under their system. By meeting the team’s conditioning standards, he has earned a chance to get on the field in practice and work toward a potential game-day role.
For Tampa Bay, it’s a low-risk move that could pay off down the line. Practice squad players often rotate in and out, but the Bucs clearly see enough upside in Watson’s progress to keep him around. His massive frame and experience in the SEC give him traits that can’t be taught. Now, the team hopes he can refine his game at the professional level.
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For Watson, it’s another chapter in a football journey that has always drawn attention because of his size. Now that he has worked himself into shape, he has the chance to show he belongs in the NFL.
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