Colin Granger, the new tight end for the Carolina Panthers, made an appearance on NFL Live on ESPN this week. Granger, who previously played college basketball, spoke with Dan Graziano and Marcus Spears about his swift transition to the NFL.
After completing five years on the basketball team at Coastal Carolina, Granger was guided by NFL offensive lineman George Fant, who had made a similar switch in 2016. Fant shared his expertise with Granger, aiding his transition to the NFL. Granger expressed appreciation for Fant, stating, “(George) has given me all the resources, all the confidence. George Fant changed my life.”
While speaking on NFL Live, Granger highlighted Fant’s role in his transition. “It’d have to be George Fant,” Granger said. “He kind of just DM’d me…told me who he was, told me what he thought I could be and really thought I could make the transition.”
Marcus Spears, who co-hosted the show, offered Granger advice, having himself transitioned from high school basketball to being a first-round draft pick by the Dallas Cowboys in 2005. Spears said, “I give you a lot of credit for going and trying to make this happen…stay low and keep your feet moving. This is a leverage game.”
Graziano reminded Granger of the Panthers’ history of basketball-to-football transitions, citing examples like Julius Peppers who excelled in both sports. Granger has not yet connected with Peppers but expressed interest in learning from his experiences.
Granger mentioned his anticipation of asking former dual-athlete Peppers about his experience. “I would love to just ask him his thought process at this period for him,” Granger said.
Without having played college football, Granger is considered a free agent and can sign with an NFL team immediately, which allows him to join rookie minicamps and the Panthers’ offseason program starting April 21.
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