Clemson, SC --- Since his final season with the Clemson University men's basketball team ended last month, Rod Hall has fielded countless calls from unknown numbers. Agents have been courting Hall for a chance to help him extend his career as a point guard.
Three more unknown numbers flashed on Hall's phone Friday. They were not from agents. They were scouts for National Football League teams.
They were calling to inquire if Hall would be interested in a personal workout ahead of the NFL draft next week. Representatives from at least 10 teams also have contacted Clemson assistant basketball coach Steve Smith, who has scheduled the workout for Thursday.
"I was like, 'Uh, I haven't played football in so long. Why would they really be interested?'" said Hall, who contended that he cannot remember even touching a football through the last four years.
According to Hall, pro scouts have been impressed by a YouTube video that showcases highlights from Hall's senior season at Lucy C. Laney High School in Augusta, Georgia. A standout wide receiver, Hall amassed more than 1,200 receiving yards and 13 touchdowns that year. The video even shows Hall kicking an extra point.
"It's just me making plays," said Hall, who will audition as a receiver and defensive back for NFL scouts.
Hall is listed at 6-foot-1, 205 pounds, the same measurements as former Clemson star receiver and current Buffalo Bills starter Sammy Watkins. Hall can use the workout to prove that he and Watkins have more in common on the football field than the dreadlocks that hang out the back of their helmets.
"If I get a chance, I think I definitely can do this," Hall said. "I just have to get back into that football groove."
Hall earned All-State honors in football and basketball at Laney. He said he was recruited by the Georgia Tech football program but no major Division I teams offered him a football scholarship. He delayed his decision until Clemson offered him for basketball.
Through four seasons at Clemson, Hall compiled 926 points, 393 assists and 86 steals. He started 97 of 98 games through the final three seasons. He earned a reputation for his strength, quickness and toughness, all traits that could help him extend his career as a point guard.
Or rekindle his career on the football field.
"It's still kind of crazy, though. There are all these other guys who have been playing football, but then, they're calling me," Hall said.
