Leon Thomas III of Nickelodeon's Victorious performs at Kids Day at the Super Bowl at Indiana Convention Center (NFLX) on February 1, 2012 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Former first-round pick, Big Ten standout reportedly planning to run for Congress

Talk about a career change.

Former Ohio State standout and NFL wide receiver Anthony Gonzalez is reportedly considering taking on a political career in his home state, according to Cleveland.com.

Gonzalez, 32, is holding meetings in preparation for a run at Ohio's 16th Congressional District, currently represented by Republican U.S. Rep. Jim Renacci, Republican sources following the race.

Gonzalez recently met with the National Republican Congressional Committee to express his interest in running for the position. Although he has not publicly confirmed his interest in joining the race, a Republican source close to the former wide receiver said he is seriously considering a run and will make his decision soon.

Other candidates considering running for the position include Stark County State Rep. Christina Hagan and Strongsville State Rep. Tom Patton.

Gonzalez, who played in the NFL for six seasons, has transitioned into a business career since retiring from football. He received his MBA from Stanford University in 2014 and recently resigned from his position as chief operating officer of Chalk Schools, an education technology firm in San Francisco, as noted on his LinkedIn profile.

Gonzalez recently moved to Westlake, Ohio, which is in the 16th District and nearby his hometown of Avon Lake.

During his college career, Gonzalez was a three-year letterman at Ohio State, as well as one of the primary targets for Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith. He was an All-Big Ten coaches team selection and an All-American as a junior in 2006.

Gonzalez was selected by the Indianapolis Colts at No. 32 overall in the 2007 NFL Draft. He recorded 99 receptions for 1,307 yards and seven touchdowns as a member of the Indianapolis Colts, before having his pro career cut short due to injuries.