The Carolina Panthers have made headlines by signing Colin Granger, a former college basketball player with no recent football experience, to play as a tight end. Standing at 6-foot-9 and weighing 245 pounds, Granger’s athleticism and determination caught the attention of the Panthers’ coaching staff, leading to this unconventional addition to their roster.
Granger’s journey to the NFL is anything but typical. He spent five years playing college basketball at Ohio University, Western Carolina, and Coastal Carolina, averaging 7.2 points and 4.4 rebounds in his final season. Despite not playing football since the eighth grade, Granger’s physical attributes and work ethic made him an intriguing prospect for the tight end position.
The transition from basketball to football was facilitated by NFL veteran George Fant, who also made a similar switch in his career. Fant reached out to Granger, offering guidance and training to help him prepare for a potential NFL opportunity. After weeks of rigorous workouts and a pro day organized by Fant, Granger caught the eye of the Panthers’ coaching staff, leading to his signing.
Granger’s signing is part of a broader trend of basketball players transitioning to the NFL, particularly at the tight end position. Notable examples include Antonio Gates, Jimmy Graham, and Tony Gonzalez, all of whom had successful football careers after playing college basketball. The Panthers’ coaching staff, including head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan, have experience with such transitions, having previously worked with George Fant during their time with the Seattle Seahawks.(
Upon signing with the Panthers, Granger expressed his excitement and determination to succeed in his new role. In an Instagram video, he encouraged others to pursue their dreams, stating, “Anything, and I mean anything, you want to do in life, you can do.” His enthusiasm and commitment have been praised by his former basketball coach, Justin Gray, who highlighted Granger’s discipline and dedication as key factors in his potential success.
Granger joins a competitive tight end group in Carolina, which includes Tommy Tremble, Ja’Tavion Sanders, Jordan Matthews, James Mitchell, and Dominique Dafney. While the transition from basketball to football presents challenges, Granger’s unique background and support system position him well to make an impact on the field
The Panthers’ decision to sign Granger reflects their willingness to explore unconventional avenues to strengthen their roster. By investing in a player with a non-traditional background, they demonstrate a commitment to innovation and adaptability in their approach to team building
As Granger embarks on this new chapter in his athletic career, his story serves as an inspiration to others considering bold career changes. With determination, support, and hard work, he aims to defy expectations and carve out a successful path in professional football.
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