Does weight matter in the NFL? Well, this has been a constant source of concern for fans throughout the sport’s 100+ year history. After all, the players need to have a lot of strength, but no one has ever seen a huge player on the field. So, are there any restrictions for players regarding weight? Well, that’s a really good question. And it appears that a recently retired player while discussing his NFL experience, divulged into specifics about how weight works in the NFL.

After seven seasons of playing the game, Isaac Christopher Rochell announced his retirement. It was surprising when the DE in his final speech said, “Football has shaped my life in ways I could never have imagined, and I’ll forever be indebted to the game and the NFL. I can’t wait to see where this next phase leads. Let’s get to work” While Rochell is going through an emotional period right now, he is answering some of his fans,’ most often-requested questions. While on the subject of weight in the NFL, he also revealed that players can be penalized if they do not maintain their weight. Huh, really?

Well, yes. The former Chargers player addressed this on his Instagram story. He wrote about the time when he was having weight problems. And to deal with that, he used to work out a lot while simultaneously eating anything he wanted. The man said that this was how he stayed in satisfying shape throughout his career. He also revealed that the NFL does not specify less weight, but it does have a maximum weight limit. If the players exceed that limit, they will be penalized $700 per pound. Jeez! That’s a lot. 

Isaac Christopher Rochell in his story further wrote, “When I was in the NFL I got into the habit of binge eating after a hard practice. It was always my excuse but that mentality can catch up with you. I always felt good at the weight I was at and didn’t really think about losing. Looking back, I probably could’ve played lighter but it is what it is. Also, the NFL doesn’t have minimum weights they only have max. You get fined $700 per pound that you are over.”

After the former Chargers player’s statements, every fan is now focused on one player’s name in their minds. That’s right, it’s Deebo Samuel and the current scenario about his weight controversy. But what really happened with the WR?

Deebo Samuel struggled with weight issues during the 2024 season

The San Francisco 49ers had a major issue with their WR last season. Samuel and the team had a major disagreement about his weight issues. Some sources on the internet claimed that the WR was 20 pounds heavier than the maximum weight limit. As a result, his on-field performance suffered, particularly his ability to make explosive runs and break tackles. But the key twist in the story occurred when the WR posted an unusual IG story.

Deebo Samuel took to Instagram to clarify that the claims were bogus. The WR said that he was fine and that his weight never exceeded the maximum limit. However, a few hours later, he withdrew the story, leading to speculation that it was simply a bad defensive maneuver. There seemed to be a lot of hatred for Samuel, first for being overweight, then for denying it fully, and last for not standing his stance.

Furthermore, since the story, there has been a rumor that the WR may be taking an exit from the team shortly. Although there have been little updates on this news, a future trade or release is possible. Both the team and Samuel wish to part ways. Nobody knows what’s going on right now or who is correct in this situation. So, what is your opinion? Do you think weight issues are a major issue in the NFL? Or do you think the league is doing the right thing by preserving the maximum limit? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section!