Yep, I also encourage you to use this off-season to prepare for your best season ever.
I have always reffed at about 202 pounds (I'm 5'11). I have lifted weights and done cardio 5 days a week since I was in my teens so I have a muscular build. For the last 5 years, I have ended the season with a very sore achilles. Last summer, I agreed to let my wife (who is a personal trainer and nutritionist) write an eating plan for me.
In about 2 months, I dropped my weight from 202 to 188. My bodyfat percentage went from 19% to 13%.
No injuries and absolutely no pain this last season. I'm staying at 188 year-round now. Just do it.
