Texas Tech Forward Marcus Santos-Silva Making Switch to NFL, Signs With Browns
Marcus Santos-Silva was a dominating physical presence off the bench for coach Mark Adams and the Texas Tech Red Raiders this past season.
But instead of prepping for the 2022 NBA Draft, Santos-Silva is taking his talents to the gridiron, as the Cleveland Browns announced Monday that they have signed the Taunton, Mass. native to an undrafted free agent deal.
Per the release, the Browns confirmed that Santos-Silva will play tight end and had this to say about the 6-6, 261-pound beast:
Santos-Silva (6-6, 261) enters his rookie season in 2022, following a two-year basketball career at Texas Tech (2020-22). Santos-Silva completed his career with 1,244 points, 957 rebounds and 61 blocked shots. He earned All-Big 12 honorable mention in 2022, accruing 175 points, 29 blocked shots and 151 rebounds. The Taunton, Mass. native originally transferred to Texas Tech after three years (2017-20) at VCU.
Santos-Silva likely won’t see much playing time next season, but could serve as a primary developmental project for the Browns. His unprecedented size and build makes him a scary sight for opposing defensive linemen. Once he gains more experience through time on the Cleveland practice squad, Santos-Silva could become a key depth piece for coach Kevin Stefanski.
Last season on the hardwood, Santos-Silva averaged 4.7 points and 4.1 rebounds while shooting 57.8 percent from the floor. He appeared in all 37 games and made one start.
Santos-Silva’s highest-scoring game of the season came in the season-opener against North Florida. He had 13 points and four rebounds in 16 minutes.
Now, he’ll follow the trend made famous by legendary Chargers tight end and former Kent State basketball standout Antonio Gates.
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