*Nate Robinson is known for being among the players to watch in the NBA, but the three-time slam dunk champion is looking to mark a new path by going back to his football roots as he sets out to become the first NBA player to play in the NFL.
According to FoxSports, Robinson broke the news of his NFL bid in a in a video for The Lead Sports. The basketball star, who is currently a free agent after being waived by the Pelicans, has received support for his endeavor from NBA greats like the Los Angeles Clippers’ Jamal Crawford and Glen Davis, Jacksonville Jaguars tight end Marcedes Lewis and former Washington Redskins football coach, Rick Neuheisel.
Although Robinson trying to play pro football at age 31 with a 5-foot-9, 180-pound frame may seem crazy, the reality is he spent time on the football field prior to being a presence on the basketball court.
Fox Sports notes that Robinson originally enrolled at the University of Washington to play football. As a member of the Huskies in 2002, Robinson played 13 games in his first year and ended up starting the final six games at cornerback. Overall, Robinson marked the season with picking off two passes and making 34 tackles.
Nevertheless, the reality is that it’s been more than a decade since Robinson played football, a fact that he openly realistically acknowledged while touting the experience he gained on the field.
“I haven’t played in 11 years, 12 years.” Robinson said. “But I know how to play. I know how to hit. I know how to catch — I can get picks, I can get deflections. I know all techniques — bump, seven yards off, five yards off. I know it all.”
In addition, Robinson’s speed is a plus and was a significant unmatched factor at one time in the NBA. According to Bullets Forever, the athlete posted the fastest full-court sprint time at 2.96 seconds.
We Publish News 24/7. Don’t Miss A Story. Click HERE to SUBSCRIBE to Our Newsletter Now!
