Colin Granger's Whirlwind Journey to the NFL

Colin Granger, a 6-foot-8, 245-pound center at Coastal Carolina, never imagined he would have the opportunity to play in the NFL. However, after receiving a message on Instagram from George Fant, a former college basketball player who made it to the NFL, Granger's life changed forever.

Fant, who is currently a free agent, is working to establish an academy for college basketball players to help them transition to the NFL. He believes that Granger has the potential to make the transition and has been working with him to improve his skills and chances of getting signed by an NFL team.

Granger, who averaged 7.2 points and 4.4 rebounds for the Chanticleers this past season, caught Fant's eye in part because of the way he attacked the boards for offensive rebounds. Fant saw potential in Granger's ability to use his size and strength to his advantage on the football field.

The Panthers' Interest in Granger

The Panthers, along with four other teams (the Minnesota Vikings, Seattle Seahawks, Houston Texans and Philadelphia Eagles), came to Atlanta for Granger's pro day before the Panthers signed him a few days later. Offensive tackle George Fant (77) wants to help others follow in his footsteps as a college basketball player who made it to the NFL. Michael Allio/Icon Sportswire

For Granger, signing with the Panthers is the beginning of a new chapter in his life. He is excited about the opportunity to learn and grow as a football player and hopes to one day make a name for himself in the NFL.

Fant, for his part, is happy to have been able to help Granger and is looking forward to the future. He believes that his academy has the potential to help many more college basketball players make the transition to the NFL and is committed to making it a success.