Ex-NFL player signs professional basketball contract to play overseas

Sep 9, 2018; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers wide receiver Devin Funchess (17) stands on the field prior to the start of the game against the Dallas Cowboys at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports

A former NFL player has gone pro in Colombia, but not for playing football.

Former Carolina Panthers wide receiver Devin Funchess has signed professionally to play basketball for the Caribbean Storm Llaneros of the Professional Colombia Basketball league. The 29-year-old Michigan alum is already showing off the ability to use his size, as well as a decent jump shot.

Former #Panthers WR Devin Funchess has signed a deal with the Caribbean Storm Llaneros of the Professional Colombia Basketball league.

Funchess is the first former NFL player to go on and sign a professional basketball contract.

Here are his highlights:pic.twitter.com/hyZuHp2KHo

— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) May 8, 2024

Funchess last played in the NFL in 2019, but failed to catch on after switching positions from wide receiver to tight end. All the way back in 2022, he said his ambition was to play in the NBA, and that he was going to pursue a career to that end. It is still an unlikely goal, but signing a professional contract at all is rather impressive considering his background in a different spot.

Funchess was listed at 6-foot-4 and 225 lbs. in his NFL playing career, so he probably profiles as a fairly large guard. His best NFL season came in 2017, when he caught 63 passes for 840 yards and eight touchdowns with the Panthers.