Joe Haden
Tim Tebow may have a little competition this season at the quarterback position. Ok, maybe I shouldn’t go that far, but Florida defensive back Joe Haden has been taking snaps from under center during Gator practices. Haden played quarterback at Friendly (MD) HS and set several state records for passing. He came to Florida in 2007 as an athlete but didn’t get the chance to compete for a quarterback spot. His athletic ability allowed him the rare opportunity to start at cornerback for the Gators as a freshman and he’s already regarded as one of the best cover corners in the nation.
The Gators will more than likely use Haden out of the Wildcat formation as they did with Percy Harvin. Having him back there would also give Florida the option to throw the ball out of it as well. “I used to really play quarterback,” Haden said. “It’s not like I’m a defensive back trying to play quarterback. [Opponents] might have to play the same defenses as they do against Tebow, because I can throw the ball, too.”
Florida is looking for an offensive threat to replace Harvin and Urban Meyer is auditioning several different players that could possibly play the role. Haden runs a 4.3 40 and has a cannon for an arm. Opposing teams will have their hands full this fall if they have to contend with both him and Tim Tebow in the same backfield. It will be interesting to see what Florida does this season with Haden and how they factor him into their offensive strategy.
