The Bucs have released defensive tackle Desmond Watson from the practice squad. The fan favorite missed all of training camp and the preseason due to being overweight, as he had not met the team’s goal for him at well over 450 pounds.
Yet when he made significant progress on his weight loss journey the team signed him to the practice squad on September 23 after a tryout following his release on August 25 during roster cutdowns.
The move was first reported by NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero on X.
The Bucs released DT Desmond Watson from the practice squad.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) November 11, 2025
Desmond Watson’s release from the practice squad was due to performance and the team needing Watson’s spot on the practice squad for another player. Watson, an undrafted free agent out of Florida, was one of three defensive tackles on the practice squad, joining fellow rookie Nash Hutmacher and veteran Adam Gotsis. With defensive tackle Calijah Kancey on injured reserve following surgery for his torn pectoral muscle, the Buccaneers have six defensive tackles on their active roster with Vita Vea, Elijah Roberts, Logan Hall, Greg Gaines, Elijah Simmons and C.J. Brewer.
This may or may not be Watson’s last chance with the Buccaneers, but the fact that he’s been cut from the active roster and the practice squad isn’t a great indicator that Tampa Bay will in fact give him another chance down the road.
The Buccaneers suffered another injury in Sunday’s 28-23 loss to the Patriots when starting left guard Ben Bredeson went down with a hamstring injury. He’ll likely miss a few weeks due to that injury and the team may need to add another guard to the practice squad. The only offensive linemen on the practice squad are guard Ben Scott and offensive tackles Karsen Barnhart and Lorenz Metz.
Tampa Bay also received news that rookie running back Josh Williams was suspended for six games due to testing positive for a performance-enhancing substance. The Buccaneers now only have two healthy running backs on their active roster in Rachaad White and Sean Tucker with Bucky Irving still trying to come back from foot and shoulder injuries he suffered in Week 4 against Philadelphia.
The Bucs have two running backs on their practice squad in Owen Wright, who was signed in training camp and played in the preseason, in addition to Michael Wiley, who was recently added. Wright could be signed to the active roster to replace Williams as he is more familiar with Tampa Bay’s offense.
BOSTON, MA – In a move that has stunned fans and industry insiders alike, Boston Red Sox outfielder Jarren Duran has declined a lucrative offer to collaborate with Nike on a new line of baseball cleats. Duran, known for his speed, versatility, and dynamic style on the field, surprised many by turning down what was considered a major endorsement deal with the global sportswear giant.
Duran, whose exciting play has quickly made him one of the most promising young players in Major League Baseball, explained that his decision was grounded in his desire to remain true to his personal brand and values. “It wasn’t an easy decision, but at the end of the day, I have to make choices that align with who I am and what I want to represent,” Duran said in a statement. “Nike has been amazing to athletes, but this just wasn’t the right fit for me right now.”
“Staying True to His Roots”
While Nike is a name synonymous with top athletes, Duran’s refusal to sign on with the company has raised eyebrows in the sports world. Many young athletes would jump at the opportunity to work with such a global brand, but Duran’s approach remains focused on authenticity over financial gain or fame.
“I’ve always believed in doing things my way,” Duran explained. “When it comes to my brand, I want to make sure I’m aligning with people and products that reflect who I truly am. I want to make choices that feel real, not just because of the money or the visibility.”
“The Future of Duran’s Brand”
Although Duran turned down Nike’s offer, he has made it clear that he is not turning his back on endorsement deals altogether. In fact, he’s hinted at exploring opportunities with smaller, more niche brands that better align with his personal values. “I’m still keeping my options open,” Duran said. “I want to work with companies that support what I stand for and that understand the impact we can make together.”
Duran’s decision reflects a growing trend among athletes who are taking control of their personal brands and choosing partnerships that reflect their identity, rather than simply chasing the next big endorsement deal. With his emerging popularity, engaging personality, and presence on social media, Duran has the potential to carve out a unique space for himself in the endorsement world—one that is driven by authenticity and personal values.
“Nike’s Next Move?”
Nike, which has long been a staple in the sports world, will undoubtedly feel the impact of Duran’s decision. While the company has numerous partnerships with elite athletes, Duran’s refusal to partner with them on a baseball-specific product may lead Nike to rethink its approach when working with athletes who prioritize authenticity over financial gain.
For the Boston Red Sox, Duran’s speed and electric presence in the outfield have been a key part of the team’s identity. His decision to pass on the Nike deal may prompt other brands to rethink their approach to endorsements, especially with players who have strong individual brands like Duran.
“Looking Ahead: Jarren Duran’s Future”
Looking to the future, Duran is focused on continuing his success with the Red Sox while also growing his personal brand in a way that feels true to who he is. With a bright future ahead in both Major League Baseball and potential endorsement deals, Duran’s choice to turn down Nike is just one step in his larger journey toward independence and self-direction.
“Right now, my focus is on helping the Red Sox win and becoming the best player I can be,” Duran said. “But off the field, I’m also focused on building something that’s authentic to who I am. I know the right opportunities will come when the time is right.”
As Jarren Duran continues to make his mark in MLB, his decision to decline the Nike partnership only adds to his growing reputation as a player who is determined to shape his own future on his terms.