In today’s NFL, the larger a defensive tackle is, the more useful he can be to the D-line. But that’s only true to a point. Most defensive coordinators want their DTs over the top of the 300-pound mark, but too much weight can inhibit performance.  Case in point: Baltimore Ravens DT Terrence Cody.
Nicknamed Mt. Cody as a college lineman for the Alabama Crimson Tide, Cody played close to the 400-pound mark last season, his first as a pro. Sure, he was able to perform on the field, but not as the difference-maker the Ravens staff thought they were getting when they made him their second-round pick in 2010. “I was out of shape and overweight,” Cody told Tom Worgo of CSNBaltimore. “That’s what kind of slowed me down.”
Cody took his weight seriously this off-season, shedding a full 65 pounds and getting down to 335. The weight loss has allowed him to move faster while still maintaining enough size to eat up blockers. Paired with Pro Bowl DT Haloti Ngata, Cody gives the Ravens another potential superstar anchor in their perennially tough defense.
Learn from Cody and find your peak playing weight. Use these three tips to watch your weight:
Put on Weight Safely
If a coach suggests bulking up, make sure to take in clean calories and avoid junk food. Adding muscle won’t happen with empty calories. (Learn more about quality calories.)
Keep Training
Getting the green light to gain weight doesn’t mean you can stop lifting or running. As always, check with the coaching staff.
Know Your Body
With too much bulk on your frame, you won’t be able to make moves at the line of scrimmage. No one knows your body better than you, so be aware of how much weight is too much.
Source:  CSNBaltimore.com
Photo:  al.com