Report: Braves agree to minor-league deal with former NFLer Commings

Perhaps Tim Tebow has started a trend.

The Atlanta Braves have reportedly agreed to a minor-league deal with former NFL defensive back Sanders Commings, according to Ken Rosenthal of FOX Sports, who cites sources.

Born in Augusta, Ga., Commings was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fifth round of the 2013 NFL Draft. A fractured collarbone and a broken ankle sidelined the 26-year-old in 2013 and 2014, and he was released before the 2015 season.

"We feel this is a tremendous athlete and an even better person," Braves general manager John Coppolella said, according to David O'Brien of AJC.com. "Our mantra has always been to leave no stone unturned. What’s the downside here?"

Commings played baseball as a senior in high school, posting a .520 batting average with 15 home runs, 40 RBIs, and 18 stolen bases. He was drafted in the 37th round by the Arizona Diamondbacks in 2008, but never signed a deal with the team and instead focused on his football career.

Although he hasn't played baseball in years, Commings' transition from defensive back to an outfielder was enough to draw in a few teams, including the Braves, who were intrigued by his upside. Scouts raved about his speed and hitting skill which was enough for Atlanta to offer the Georgia native a deal to prove himself.

"It’s always been my No. 1 sport," Commings said, according to a previous report from Rosenthal. "It’s always been my first love. It’s a sport I’ve loved my whole life."