NFL

Texans take look at banned sprinter Gatlin

But coach Kubiak says team not yet going to sign ex-100 record holder

Abdul Basit / AP

Justin Gatlin poses for photographers near the timing clock displaying his time after he set the world record in the 100 meters at the Qatar Grand Prix in Doha, Qatar on May 12.

updated 5:58 p.m. ET Nov. 29, 2006

HOUSTON - Track star Justin Gatlin worked out for the Houston Texans on Tuesday, but coach Gary Kubiak said signing him was “not something we would do right now.”

Gatlin, an Olympic gold medalist and co-world record holder in the 100 meters, tested positive for testosterone and other steroids in April.

Kubiak said Gatlin, who last played football in high school, had worked out for several teams over the last month. The Texans worked him out as a receiver and Kubiak said team officials told him he was “very impressive.”

“I’m sure it would be a big step for him to step up and start playing football,” Kubiak said. “But that looks like it’s something that he’s interested in.”

Gatlin was banned from track by the U.S. Anti-Doping Agency but still has the option to appeal the length of his punishment. While his Olympic medals are not affected, he’s likely to lose his share of the world record when appeals process is complete.

Kubiak said he isn’t worried about the steroids matter, because the NFL is allowing him to work out for teams.

“It was positive,” Kubiak said of the workout. “He did a good job. Some of our people who were over there watching him were amazed at how fast he ran. I don’t even know if he was full speed at that time. But he did catch the ball pretty good.”

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At 6-foot-1 and 180 pounds, the 24-year-old has the size to be an NFL receiver. Houston already has a former track standout on their roster in Jerome Mathis.

Mathis, who once participated in track’s U.S Olympic trials, earned a trip to the Pro Bowl last season as a kick returner. He was just moved to the active roster on Tuesday after missing the first 11 games with a fractured foot.