Paul Jones May See Snaps This Season…But Not Necessarily at Quarterback

When starting quarterback Matt McGloin had to be removed from the game on Saturday against Virginia, many were surprised to see true freshman Steven Bench get the call, as opposed to fan-favorite Paul Jones. In the post-game press conference, head coach Bill O’Brien made it clear that Jones is the third string quarterback…and also a tight end.

O’Brien disclosed that Jones had been taking reps with both the quarterbacks and the tight ends last week at practice. To be more clear, O’Brien said that Jones would likely see snaps as an “F” tight end. That position, in the O’Brien offense, is the more athletic, pass-catching tight end. For a comparison, Kyle Carter is an “F” tight end. He is 6’3″ 247 pounds and has 10 catches for 107 yards and a touchdowns through two games. Paul Jones is 6’3″ 258 pounds and is very athletic with strong hands, by all accounts.

It’s unclear when fans should expect to see Jones on the field at tight end in a game situation. O’Brien offered this:

“Next week we gotta keep working Paul at both positions. We’re asking him to do a lot. He’s doing a heck of a job.”

Paul changed his number (again) before the game from 7 back to 13. It’s hard to say how well he’s taking the transition, but Jones is a competitor and doesn’t seem like the type to speak out.

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