Ruby and American football share some common elements, but can skills used in one game translate to the NFL gridiron? A 22-year-old South African who plays rugby for the New Orleans Gold hopes so.
The 5'10", 191 lb. player could make the roster as a running back, slot receiver, or special teamer. Coach Sean Payton said smart teams will look anywhere for potential football-playing talent, whether it's small colleges that don't get the attention of mega-programs at the big state schools, players from overseas, or players in other sports, like rugby or even basketball.
Payton points to defensive tackle David Onyemata as one example. Onyemata, a native of Nigeria, never played football until he started attending Manitoba University in Canada.
And most Who Dats likely remember the story of Jimmy Graham, a University of Miami basketball player who took up football late in his college career, only to become one of the top tight ends in the NFL when Drew Brees was throwing him the ball.
New Orleans Saints minicamp starts Tuesday morning. Gates open to fans at 11:15 a.m. for noon practice. Attendance is free. Click here for more information.