Houston Texans

Former Penn State hoops player earns tryout with Texans

Published May. 4, 2015 11:57 p.m. ET

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Antonio Gates did it.

So did Jimmy Graham.

Now, the Houston Texans are hoping Ross Travis can become the latest college basketball player to find success in the NFL.

The Texans have invited Travis, a member of the Penn State basketball team, to the team's rookie minicamp, according to his representatives.

Congrats to our guy Ross Travis - @RossJumpkid - who is heading to rookie mini camp with the @HoustonTexans! #NFL #PennState #Texans
— Tier 1 Sports Mgmt (@Tier1SportsMgmt) May 3, 2015

The senior forward started 27 games for the Nittany Lions last season and has shown a tendency to be able to go up and get the ball, which may help his chances of sticking in the NFL. He led the team in rebounding three of his four seasons in Happy Valley.

According to the Daily Collegian, a Penn State student newspaper, Travis has been working out as a tight end, much like many former hoops players. But he may be a little rusty. The 6-foot-7, 235-pound Travis said he hasn't played football since his freshman year of high school.

Still, the Texans, coached by former Penn State head coach Bill O'Brien, have apparently seen enough to give him a shot. Travis said if nothing develops in Houston, he'll return his focus to basketball.

(h/t The Daily Collegian)

Photo credit: Andy Manis/AP