Carolina Panthers Sign Colin Granger, Former College Basketball Star, as Tight End Prospect

Carolina Panthers Sign Colin Granger, Former College Basketball Star, as Tight End Prospect

The Carolina Panthers have announced an intriguing addition to their training camp roster. Colin Granger, a former Division 1 basketball player, has officially signed with the team as they seek to transition him into the tight end position.

Granger, who stands 6 feet 8 inches tall and weighs 245 pounds, is notably five years removed from high school football. This allows him to join the Panthers as a free agent, providing a unique opportunity to explore a different path in professional sports.

A College Basketball Career

During his college career, Granger showcased his skills as a center while playing for Ohio University, Western Carolina, and Coastal Carolina. His tenure included impressive statistics, such as a shooting percentage of 52.3% and a total of 322 rebounds across three programs.

At Coastal Carolina alone, Granger amassed 137 rebounds, wrapping up his basketball career on a high note. This performance caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his current opportunity with the Panthers.

Historical Precedents

The Panthers’ management has a proven track record of successfully converting basketball players into effective NFL players. Notably, head coach Dave Canales and general manager Dan Morgan previously worked with George Fant, who made a similar transition with the Seattle Seahawks.

Fant, a 6-foot-5 former basketball player from Western Kentucky, adapted to play as a hybrid offensive tackle and tight end. His successful career spanned seven seasons with the Seahawks, New York Jets, and Houston Texans, demonstrating that athletic skill from basketball can translate well onto the football field.

Mentorship and Preparation

Recent reports indicate that George Fant has been mentoring Granger as he embarks on this new journey. Fant recognized Granger’s potential and informed the Panthers about his prospects. While the support is invaluable, the transition will still pose challenges.

Challenges Ahead

Granger’s last experience on a football field dates back to eighth grade, which adds to the complexity of his conversion to tight end. However, challenges are not uncommon in this position, especially given the successful paths of other former basketball players. Icons like Antonio Gates, Jimmy Graham, and Tony Gonzalez all made successful transitions to the NFL from basketball, paving the way for new athletes like Granger.

Competition for a Spot

As Granger prepares for training camp this summer, he will face stiff competition from several established tight ends. Notable players in the running include Tommy Tremble and Ja’Tavion Sanders. Competing at such a high level will be crucial for Granger as he seeks to secure his position on the team.

Looking Forward

As the Panthers gear up for training camp, the signing of Colin Granger highlights a bold strategy to diversify their roster with diverse talents. While the journey from basketball to football is challenging, it is also filled with potential for dynamic and unexpected outcomes.

Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Granger adapts to the NFL’s demands and whether he can carve out a role for himself with the Panthers. With mentorship from previous success stories and his own athletic background, the future holds promise for this unique endeavor.

Stay tuned as the story unfolds throughout the summer months, particularly during training camp, where the pressure and excitement will undoubtedly be palpable.