by Matt Weik, BS, CSCS, CPT, CSN
Jelly Roll, born Jason Bradley DeFord, has made a massive and bold public transformation. His weight-loss journey began in December 2022, and in August 2025, he revealed he had dropped over 200 pounds. He even joked that he might earn a Tennessee Titans contract if he loses another 50 pounds.
Now, while you can find Jelly Roll in my playlist, it’s not his music that has me thinking about the future — it’s his weight loss transformation.
One of the biggest things I try to preach to my training clients is that their weight loss journey doesn’t just affect them, it can affect others. And when it comes to Jelly Roll, he’s on top of the world right now with his reach, and if he can motivate others by showcasing his weight loss transformation, he can help millions of other people as well.
In my opinion, Jelly Roll could very well “Make America Healthy Again.” But let’s dive a little deeper and talk about this.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before starting any exercise program, making changes to your nutrition plan, or adding any new supplements into your current regimen.
Jelly Roll Went from 540 to 357 Pounds (and Counting)
In April 2025, Jelly Roll shared that he began at around 540 pounds and was down to 357 pounds.
That puts his loss at nearly 200 pounds, an incredible, measurable transformation.
Some may laugh and joke that 357 is still a “big boy,” but all things considered, losing nearly 200 pounds is quite the accomplishment.
While he’s proud of his transformation thus far, he knows he still has a ways to go (and I believe he’s going to get there).
Battling Food Addiction Like His Past Addictions
Jelly Roll has been transparent about the roots of his struggle. He says food addiction was as real as any drug addiction he’s ever known.
He’s said that the real work is at the dinner table. Exercise helps, sure, but it’s the mental fight with food that matters most.
Food addiction is a major concern in the United States, and today, we have nearly 75% of adults being overweight and almost 50% of them being considered obese. That’s a SCARY number when you think about it.
Don’t believe me? Walk down the street and see how many people are overweight and obese.
Small Steps, Big Momentum
What’s been the secret to his success in breaking his poor habits and food addiction?
He’s kept it simple.
He eats protein, vegetables, and walks. That’s his routine.
He ran his first 5K in May 2024 and dropped 70 pounds in the process. Now he’s training for another.
He even started “Jelly Roll’s Losers Run Club,” a judgment-free fitness group.
He’s making real change in the community, and this is why I truly believe he’s going to not only help himself in the process, but millions more who follow him and his music.
Food That Tastes Good and Supports the Goal
Jelly Roll doesn’t believe healthy food has to suck.
He shares his tour meals, like a Waffle-House-inspired bowl (air-fried hash browns, chicken sausage, bell peppers, bone broth, sauerkraut), protein-rich snacks, and dairy-free poutine with cashew cheese.
He proves comfort food can be smarter and still satisfying. And the proof is in the pudding with his amazing weight loss progress.
Jelly Roll Has a Goal Beyond the Scale
He’s aiming to bring his story to every American who feels stuck.
Jelly Roll has said, “I didn’t become successful because of my weight. I became successful in spite of it.”
He set a bold target: get below 250 pounds (that’s his threshold for skydiving, roller coasters, bull riding, and even alligator wrestling).
And by March 2026, he wants to be on the cover of Men’s Health.
Inspiring Discipline and Teamwork
In August 2025, Jelly Roll shared his transformation with the Tennessee Titans during a training-camp speech.
His weight loss became a metaphor for discipline, perseverance, and camaraderie (values that resonate with professional teams and everyday life alike).
The “If I Can Do It, You Can Do It” Mentality We Need
Jelly Roll’s journey isn’t about celebrity. It’s about starting from where you are.
He started at 540 pounds. He faced food addiction. He got honest in public. He made smart food swaps. He walked, ran, and leaned on support. He set goals (and chased them).
All I can do is clap and tip my hat to the man. He’s made a real change in himself and others in the process.
His blueprint can be your blueprint, too. It doesn’t have to be anything hardcore. Like he said… keep it simple.
- Small changes add up.
- Discipline beats quick fixes.
- Community and accountability help when motivation dips.
- Love the food you eat (even while changing it).
If a man once known as a 550-lb “zombie” can find his path back to health, you can, too.
Let Jelly Roll’s story be your wake-up call. So often, our biggest obstacle is believing change isn’t possible.
But here’s what you do: Start. Move. Tread where fear stands.
“Well, he did it,” you think.
If he can do it, you can do it.
