Draft Dose: College QBs who can play other positions

Steelers WR Antwaan Randle El, Browns WR Joshua Cribbs and Jets WR Brad Smith all have one thing in common — each was a college quarterback. As the game continues to evolve, the prototypical pocket passer is no longer necessary to be successful in the college game. But the NFL is a different story. Athletic quarterbacks can get by with speed in college, but a lack of arm strength and accuracy quickly reveals itself in the NFL. Some college quarterbacks are better fits at different positions in the NFL, which is the reason why, in the 23rd installment of the Draft Dose series, we take a look at some quarterbacks who could change positions at the next level.

Texas A&M QB Jerrod Johnson

At 6-5, 251 pounds, Johnson is better known for his athleticism than his accuracy. The former Aggies' signalcaller threw nine interceptions in seven games last season before being benched for the remainder of the campaign. With slim chances getting a job under center in the pros, Johnson could be better off at tight end. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.77 seconds at the NFL Scouting Combine and accumulated 877 rushing yards in 37 collegiate contests. The former high school receiver proved his versatility by playing in four games with the Texas A&M basketball team during his redshirt freshman season and seems to have the work ethic and intangibles to make the switch to the TE spot. He has two career receptions for 41 yards, both of which came in '08.

Nevada QB Colin Kaepernick

Kaepernick likely will be given the opportunity to play quarterback at the next level, but he might have the skill set to contribute as a wideout, if needed. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds at the Combine and has shown impressive acceleration and quickness throughout his collegiate career. Kaepernick has rushed for more than 1,000 yards in each of the past three seasons, collecting a total of 4,112 rushing yards, and threw for only one more touchdown (21) than he scored on the ground (20) a year ago. His ability to extend plays should make the hardworking, competitive Kaepernick a viable NFL threat at various positions.

California (Pa.) QB Josh Portis

Portis played for three schools in his collegiate career and never excelled as a quarterback at the D-I level. He had just 11 passing attempts at Florida behind QBs Chris Leak and Tim Tebow and eventually transferred to Maryland. After one season as a running complement, and the realization that he would not be a starter in '09, Portis transferred to California (Pa.), a Division II school. He was a productive passer, but often depended on his athleticism and did not show the decision-making skills expected of a pro-level quarterback. As a raw prospect with good agility, Portis might have a chance to make it in the NFL as a wide receiver.

Virginia Tech QB Tyrod Taylor

Taylor led all quarterbacks at the Combine with a time of 4.51 seconds in the 40-yard dash, just one-hundredth of a second slower than the draft's top WR prospect, A.J. Green. Taylor was an effective passer at Virginia Tech but was most dangerous outside of the pocket, as evident by his 2,196 rushing yards and 23 rushing TDs in his collegiate career. Taylor's speed and playmaking ability could make him an effective slot receiver at the next level, as well as a dangerous return man. The same skill set and creativity used to avoid pass rushers as a quarterback could also translate to special teams.

Source: http://www.profootballweekly.com/2011/04/01/draft-dose-college-qbs-who-can-play-other-position

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