The Minnesota Vikings this week officially revealed that backup quarterback Joe Webb has been moved to a wide receiver position.
Vikings head coach Leslie Frazier confirmed the decision in an interview with the Minneapolis Star Tribune. A move for Webb had been rumored since the Vikings signed free agent quarterback Matt Cassel for the backup position. Frazier stated that the decision was made shortly after this year’s NFL Draft, during which the Vikings drafted wide receiver Cordarelle Patterson in the first round.
Webb was reportedly informed of his new position on the first day of team workouts. He told the Star Tribune that the move will be “very interesting,” as he has not played wide receiver since his rookie minicamp. Webb also played wide receiver during his college sophomore season with the University of Alabama at Birmingham, during which he had 30 receptions and three touchdown catches. Webb stated that he believes his quarterback experience and knowledge will help him and his fellow teammates.
Vikings offensive coordinator Bill Musgrave told the Star Tribune that Webb may be used on special teams and “in other ways.”