The Next Antonio Gates?

Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

The conversion of Antonio Gates of the San Diego Chargers from Kent State basketball standout to potential Hall of Fame NFL Tight End is well known throughout the sporting world.

Jimmy Graham traveled a similar route, playing four years of NCAA basketball for the University of Miami, and only one year of football for the ‘Canes, before being drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the 3rd round of the 2010 NFL Draft.

As reported by Mike Wells of ESPN.com, Erik Swoope hopes to follow the trail blazed by these two stars after being signed by the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent.

The 6’5″, 220-pound Swoope has no college football experience, but played four years of basketball for the University of Miami. He started 27 of 110 games and averaged 5.0 points per game last season.

Swoope could potentially see the field against Jimmy Graham and the New Orleans Saints in the 3rd preseason game of the year. He won’t have to opportunity to see Antonio Gates and the Chargers this year, but I would not be surprised if he’s already sent a ‘Thank You’ note to Antonio Gates for paving the way for guys like him.