With the NFL Draft right around the corner, pro days are commencing nationwide, giving scouts a last look at prospects. Recently, the Florida Gators held their pro day, with their top talent participating in multiple drills to showcase their talent. One of the biggest standouts from the Florida prospects was defensive lineman Desmond Watson.
Desmond Watson Shows Out at Florida Pro Day
Watson, a senior from Plant City, Florida, stood out among the prospects during his pro day, mainly due to his size and stature. Watson measured a staggering 6’5″ and weighed a whopping 464 pounds. The defensive lineman put on 84 pounds during his time in Gainsville, weighing 380 pounds during his freshman season.
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Entering the draft at this weight gives Watson a chance to make history in April by becoming the heaviest player ever selected. The heaviest draft picks, Trent Brown and Daniel Faalele, both offensive linemen, weighed in at 380 pounds.
Watson’s size and stature are a complete anomaly to the sport. Even Florida head coach Billy Napier was shocked by Watson’s build: “You´ll go the rest of your career, and you´ll never be around a guy that´s that stature.”
It wasn’t just his size that impressed scouts. He had a great showing on the bench, pumping out 36 reps of 225 pounds, repping more than anyone at the NFL Combine. The record is 51 reps, set by Justin Earnest in 1999.
The defensive lineman also participated in the 40-yard dash, which he completed in 5.93 seconds and recorded a 25-inch vertical.
Watson is projected to be selected on the third or fourth day of the draft. There are plenty of teams that could use the presence of Watson on their defensive line. The Panthers, Cowboys, and Saints have his name circled on their big board.
The organizations were the three worst rushing defenses in the league last season, each giving up more than 4.8 yards per rush and over 20 rushing touchdowns.
With Watson being his unique player, there are opportunities to get creative with the big defensive lineman. During the Gators, blowout win over Tulane in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl, Napier lined Watson up in the backfield and gave him a carry.
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He rushed for one yard. Whichever team drafts Watson, he could be helpful around the goal line on the offensive side of the ball.
Wherever Watson ends up, it will be interesting to see how he is utilized, as his size is something the league has never seen before.
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