Collin Klein Asked To Work Out With Tight Ends At NFL Combine

Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Collin Klein cannot catch a break. He was invited to the NFL Combine under the auspices of working out with his quarterbacking peers. As discussed here earlier this week, he has been working with former NFL quarterback Jake Plummer to prepare for the event. Yet according to a report released 30 minutes ago from the League, NFL.com’s Gil Brandt has officially stated that Klein is being asked to work out at the tight end position.

This does not mean Klein won’t participate with the quarterbacks as well if he accepts the invitation – tight ends are showcased on Saturday alongside offensive linemen and special teams players. Quarterbacks throw  and go through their other drills on Sunday. However, accepting the invitation would mean a significant symbolic blow to Klein, who reaffirmed his intentions to play QB in the NFL last week and rejected the notion of engaging in Saturday’s drills. However, his journey is an uphill battle as the record-setter is currently projected to go in the last rounds or go undrafted at the QB position. His stock was further hurt by an East-West Shrine Game in which he completed less than 50 percent of his passes with no touchdowns and an interception.

In total, 19 players will be asked to try out at different positions during the event, including another quarterback – MarQueis Gray of Minnesota, who was also asked to work out with the tight ends group. Although Klein developed some experience as a wide receiver as an underclassman before taking over for Carson Coffman, he’s much more comfortable assuming the role of field general and having the game flow through him. Over at Jug of Snyder we discussed this challenge in early January. We’re in store for learning a lot this weekend, so stay tuned to the Jug for all your combine coverage.

Wildcat kicker Anthony Cantele will be participating in special teams drills on Saturday (for more on Cantele, please visit Jug of Snyder’s assessment of his pro prospects here).