Earlier this month the Houston Texans worked out world record sprinter Justin Gatlin. Gatlin recently accepted an 8 year ban for testing positive for steroids during his illustrious sprinting career. The next logical step for him? The NFL.
Although he hasn't played football since the 10th grade, Gatlin has something you cannot teach: raw speed.
Probably the only two positions he could play are likely wide receiver and cornerback. If he has any hands whatsoever, he can play receiver. If he is serious about making this his livelihood, and puts everything he has into it physically and more importantly mentally, he could be something special.
I am not sure why he hasn't worked out for any other team, especially teams that are hurting for wideouts. Lord knows the Patriots should take a look at him, with an aging, albeit solid as a rock, Troy Brown, and unproven players in the likes of Jabar Gaffney and Chad Jackson. Don't get me wrong, I love both Gaffney and Jackson, I think they had wonderful collegiate careers and just need some time in the right scheme and system (especially Gaffney as he was previously in Houston), but talent is talent, and Bill Belichick is the master at recognizing talent, whether you've had football experience or not (ahem, Stephen Neal).
In the end, it doesn't hurt teams to bring him in on Tuesdays for the free agent try out and give him a look. It could be the best "free" free agent move they make that season.
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