Former Pitt power forward Chevon Troutman will put on a helmet and shoulder pads for the first time in six years tomorrow when he goes through a tryout with the Washington Redskins.

	Matt Free, Post-Gazette Former Pitt power forward Chevon Troutman (6-6, 240 pounds) will attempt to play in the NFL. Click photo for larger image.

Troutman, who has not played football since his junior year at Williamsport High School, will participate in a minicamp at Redskins Park with Washington's draft choices and rookie free agents. Troutman will be tried at tight end at the three-day camp.

Troutman, 6 feet 6 and 240 pounds, is attempting to follow in the footsteps of Antonio Gates and make it to the NFL without playing college football. Gates, a second-year tight end with the San Diego Chargers, had 81 catches for 964 yards and 13 touchdowns and made the Pro Bowl last season.

Troutman did not sign a contract and must sign an injury waiver before participating.

If he impresses, he could get a free-agent contract offer and an invitation to training camp.

Troutman could not be reached for comment yesterday.

Three weeks ago, Troutman said playing professional basketball was his first priority and that trying out for the NFL, while still an option, was on the back burner.

He was looking forward to working out for NBA teams and was hoping to win an invitation to the Chicago predraft camp in early June.

If Troutman decides football is his game, he could benefit from a lack of tight end prospects. Only nine tight ends were drafted, the fewest in the past 10 years.