Texas Tech Dispels Rumors of Dangerous Weight Room Practices

Tour of Red Raiders' state-of-the-art facility sparks national debate over football culture and safety.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 3:52pm

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Texas Tech athletics has addressed a rumor circulating about the weight training program for its football team. A video clip showing the team's center discussing the removal of dumbbells under 40 pounds from the weight room sparked concerns from former NFL star J.J. Watt and others about the program's safety practices. However, the university has clarified that the less-than-40-pound weights are still available, just not in the specific area being toured, and that the health and rehabilitation of players is the top priority.

Why it matters

The intense scrutiny on Texas Tech's weight room practices highlights the ongoing debate around the safety and culture of college football programs, especially those with high-profile success and resources. As the sport continues to evolve, there are concerns about potential overtraining or unsafe practices that could jeopardize player health.

The details

In a video clip, Texas Tech center Sheridan Wilson told a college football media personality that the team had removed all dumbbells weighing less than 40 pounds, stating "We're not going to be weak." This sparked backlash from former NFL star J.J. Watt, who called the policy "wildly absurd and irresponsible." However, a Texas Tech spokesperson clarified that the less-than-40-pound weights are still available, just not in the specific area being toured, and that the university's state-of-the-art weight room and training facility prioritizes player health and rehabilitation.

  • The video clip surfaced over the weekend of March 14, 2026.
  • Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire is expected to address the issue in an interview this spring.

The players

Sheridan Wilson

Texas Tech center who was featured in the video clip discussing the weight room policy.

J.J. Watt

Former NFL star who criticized the reported Texas Tech weight room policy on social media.

Joey McGuire

Texas Tech head football coach known for his intense approach but commitment to player safety.

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What they’re saying

“Hopefully just performative for social media and not actually true. Would be wildly absurd and irresponsible.”

— J.J. Watt

What’s next

Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire is expected to address the weight room policy in an interview this spring.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tension between the intense, high-stakes culture of college football and the need to prioritize player health and safety. As programs continue to invest heavily in facilities and training, there will be increased scrutiny on ensuring these practices are not putting players at undue risk.