Once the Las Vegas Aces wrap up their 2024 WNBA season, Kelsey Plum might want to consider taking her athletic talents to a different field—perhaps the NFL. After all, based on her recent performance in warmups, she looks like she could strap on a helmet and compete on Sundays!
The 30-year-old point guard has already established herself as one of the WNBA’s most dynamic players, but her agility, toughness, and surprising football skills suggest she could serve as a useful depth player for many NFL teams. Plum, who was the No. 1 overall pick in the 2017 WNBA Draft, stands at 5-foot-8 and 145 pounds, which might seem undersized for professional football. However, current NFL players like Demario Douglas, Devon Achane, Wan’Dale Robinson, and Olamide Zaccheaus share a similar build, proving that size isn’t everything in today’s game.
What sets Plum apart is her incredible physique. She’s undeniably strong, with arms that look as if they’ve been sculpted in the weight room. Her muscular frame suggests she could take a hit from an NFL safety without blinking. In short, Plum has the physicality and grit needed to compete with the big boys.
Several NFL teams with struggling wide receiver corps—such as the Patriots, Chargers, Steelers, Panthers, and Broncos—could theoretically benefit from her skills. And with her history, perhaps even the New York Giants, where her ex-husband Darren Waller plays, might consider adding her to the roster. Cornerbacks would have a tough time pressing Plum at the line of scrimmage, given her quickness and strength.
RELATED: Kelsey Plum’s WNBA All-Star Event Outfit Received Plenty of Attention
The idea of Plum playing football gained momentum after a recent video surfaced showing her running routes and catching passes during pregame warmups. Her coach tossed her a basketball as she executed crisp breaks, culminating in a toe-tap touchdown along the half-court line.
The fluidity and precision with which she caught the ball were reminiscent of an NFL receiver—leading some fans to jokingly suggest that Plum could have a lower drop rate than certain wideouts, like the recently signed Kadarius Toney, whose 13.6% drop rate has been a point of frustration.
Of course, the idea of Plum transitioning to football is entirely hypothetical and just for fun. There’s no chance we’ll see her on an NFL roster anytime soon. The three-time WNBA All-Star is laser-focused on dominating the hardwood, not the gridiron. However, in a league where versatility is key and teams are always on the lookout for untapped talent, one can’t help but imagine the possibilities.
Though Plum won’t be catching passes from Patrick Mahomes or running routes in the NFL, it’s fun to think about what she could bring to a football team. Her athleticism, toughness, and work ethic are undeniable. If any team were to take a flyer on an unconventional signing, they could certainly do worse than a proven winner like Kelsey Plum.
For now, Plum will continue to focus on leading the Aces to WNBA glory, but her playful display of football prowess during warmups reminds us that great athletes can often thrive in any sport they choose.
