Mahomes thinks Dort could play as a linebacker or a running back. Dort fits the physical criteria for both positions, although only partially.
Oklahoma City Thunder's guard Luguentz Dort is known as one of the most physical and well-built defenders in the NBA. NFL superstar Patrick Mahomes thinks he could compete in his league too.
Mahomes, who is widely regarded as the most talented player in the current American football generation, attended the Game 3 between the Dallas Mavericks and the Thunder on Saturday night. During the match, he revealed a thought he had to the game's commentators.
ESPN commentator Dave Pasch announced during the broadcast that Mahomes turned to their booth and said Lu Dort could play in the NFL. According to Pasch, Mahomes said Dort could play as a linebacker or running back.
At 6'3 215 lbs (190cm, 97kg), Dort is built like a player in such a position. The average NFL running back weighs around the same as Dort, but they typically are smaller, averaging around 5'11 (180cm).
Linebackers are usually as tall as Dort (at around 6'3) but significantly heavier, weighing around 240 lbs (109kg).
Dort grew up playing association football (soccer), according to AZ Central. He later transferred to playing basketball, and there are no records of Dort officially playing American football.
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Oklahoma City Thunder
Dallas Mavericks