Florida
Gators’ DT set to become largest player drafted to NFL
How Desmond Watson went from potential undrafted free agent to late round NFL Draft pick this spring
Florida Gators defensive lineman Desmond Watson considerably outweighs the whole 2025 NFL Draft class weighing in at 464 pounds during his pro day.
Sharing the record as heaviest NFL Draft picks, Trent Brown and Daniel Faalele hold the currently hold the NFL record for heaviest players drafted at 380 pounds, respectively. Despite Watson’s size, he still blew away scouts after what coach Billy Napier said was his best football to date.
Watson finished his career with the Gators 63 career tackles, four tackles for loss, two sacks and a forced fumble. While his intimidating size stole the show, the senior nose tackle recorded 32 bench presses at 225 pounds, which is higher than anyone at the NFL Combine in March.
Gators coach Billy Napier had nothing but great remarks about Watson’s determination to become a professional prospect.
“He’s had numerous nutritionists, numerous position coaches, numerous strength coaches, and I think this past year we probably executed the best we have,” Napier said, via APNews.com. “And I thought he played his best football of his career. In general, I think he’s learned a lot about habit-building, self-discipline.
“Ultimately, the guy’s frame score would indicate that he’s going to be a huge — that number’s always going to be pretty big. He’s 6-foot-6 and just the density, the bone structure. It’s just a big man.”
Other notable times in his pro day drills included a 5.93 second 40-yard dash and 25-inch vertical which wasn’t overly impressive but solid numbers considering his size. Watson has the attention of NFL scouts, now it’s up to them whether he’s worthy of being at least a selection in the final day.
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