Former Cal State-Fullerton basketball player projects to tight end in the NFL
Ted Thompson will leave no stone unturned in an effort to find talent. That’s why it should come as no surprise to find out that Green Bay was one of seven teams that attended former Cal State-Fullerton basketball player Andre Hardy’s workout on Thursday. The 25-year-old, who projects to tight end, last played football in high school.
It’s easy to see why teams are intrigued. Hardy has ideal size (6’5, 245), above-average speed (4.7) and a wingspan of 79 inches. He also has good bloodlines. His father was a fifth-round pick by the Eagles in 1984 and spent three season in the NFL. And it certainly doesn’t hurt Hardy’s cause that three of the best tight ends in the league (Jimmy Graham, Antonio Gates and Tony Gonzalez) played hoops in college.
The Packers don’t have a pressing need at tight end, but that doesn’t mean Thompson will stand pat at the position. Andrew Quarless underwent major knee surgery at the end of last season and he’ll probably be out until Halloween. Ryan Taylor and D.J. Williams showed flashes last summer, but the two rookies combined for only 3 catches during the regular season. And Tom Crabtree is a better tweeter than football player. Simply put, this position may be a bit crowded, but aside from potential superstar Jermichael Finley, it’s not a crowd that can’t be infiltrated by a talented newcomer.
Also represented at Thursday’s workout were Minnesota, Oakland, Seattle, San Diego, San Francisco and the New York Giants. Hardy already has visits set up with the Raiders and the 49ers. There’s no word on whether he’ll meet with the Packers, but don’t be surprised if it happens. Thompson likes to use his visits primarily on lesser-known players that might be worth a roll of the dice in the seventh round or a quick phone call as soon as the last pick is announced.
Hardy signed a contract with the Raiders.