New England Patriots offensive tackle Calvin Anderson seemingly disagrees with NBA superstar Paul George’s notion that NBA players could transition easier to the NFL than vice versa.
During an episode of Podcast P with Paul George, the eight-time NBA All-Star claimed he didn’t think football players could cross over into the NBA. Granted, he didn’t completely ignore the possibility and even name-dropped previous stars that have competed in both, such as Julius Peppers and Tony Gonzalez.
But for the most part, he sees the transition as a daunting task for most football players. However, on the other end of the spectrum, he believes NBA players could make the transition to the NFL.
“I don’t think a football player could cross over into the NBA. Our game is completely skill,” said George. “For me, I think that for an NFL guy to be able to play in the league, they got to be hell of shooters, right? Because otherwise, we’re not going to guard you. You can’t shoot. That athleticism, that strength—that means nothing if you can’t shoot the ball in our league.
“…I think we have a better chance [of playing in the NFL]. Imagine if [LeBron James] was in the NFL. Who the [expletive] is stopping Bron? Imagine [Russell Westbrook]. Russ is 6’3, 6’4—built, fast as [expletive]. Russ could play safety. I think guys in the NBA could make that transition.”
Anderson obviously wasn’t taking those words on the chin, and he had a solid response to George’s opinion on the matter.
“Flopping leads to sacks or touchdowns in this league, not free throws,” Anderson posted on social media.
Flopping leads to sacks or touchdowns in this league, not free throws 🤷🏿♂️ https://t.co/QAOE0pZaBW
— Calvin Anderson (@THE_CONDA25) April 15, 2023
George has some great points on the skilled aspects of the NBA, but there are also skilled aspects in the NFL as well. There’s also the physicality of the game that very few human beings are built to withstand, regardless of size.
At the end of the day, it’s a fun back-and-forth debate between two athletes competing against the best in the world in their particular sports. It’s barbershop talk—nothing more, nothing less.
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