The Four Best Quarterbacks Turned Wide Receivers in NFL History

ByBryan Armetta

6 min read

The Four Best Quarterbacks Turned Wide Receivers in NFL History

Playing quarterback may be the toughest job in professional sports, with just thirty-two jobs in the world available at the highest level. For many in the NFL, natural talent enabled them to play quarterback in high school and even college, but they simply could not make the cut in the pros. However, this does not mean their football journey is over.

No spot on the field is more linked with the quarterback than wide receiver. Having to learn routes and find chemistry with each other means the two positions need to be in sync in order for an offense to have success. Therefore, it comes as no surprise that many ex-QB's have made for exceptional pass catchers in the NFL.

Here are five of the best converted quarterbacks to line up at wide receiver in NFL history.


Hines Ward

Contrary to common thought, Ward was only a primary quarterback in high school. At Forrest Park, located just outside Atlanta, Ward excelled as a dual-threat passer, winning Clayton County offensive player of the year honors twice in 1992 and '93.

After receiving a scholarship from the University of Georgia, Ward spent most of his time at receiver, while also running the ball and taking kick returns. In the 1995 Peach Bowl, Ward (filling in for injured starter Mike Bobo) had an astounding 459 total yards against the Virginia Cavaliers, showcasing his ability to throw and run the ball. He finished his career with the Bulldogs as fifth in career all-purpose yards.

Selected in the third round of the 1998 NFL Draft by the Pittsburgh Steelers, Ward soon established himself as one of the premier wide receivers in the game. He would win two Super Bowls, reach four Pro Bowl teams, and become first on the list of franchise receiving leaders, after spending his entire fourteen-year career in Pittsburgh.

Before he became established at one position, Ward's reputation for filling in wherever he was needed enabled him to show his worth anywhere. Going from quarterback to offensive weapon required extra work and exceptional athleticism. To make a similar shift like this future Hall of Famer, it pays to play everywhere in high school and to make your effort known on each snap.


Julian Edelman

Following a run at QB for his Woodside, California high school, Julian Edelman didn't receive any college scholarship offers. He decided to attend the College of San Mateo, where he broke records as a diminutive, speedy quarterback. Edelman then transferred to Kent State University, where he finally was given a scholarship to play football. He became a three-year starter at the school, running a simple spread offense that put the ball in his hands on every play. While he wasn't the most accurate passer, Edelman's all-around skills made him a legitimate NFL prospect by the time he graduated from Kent State.

The New England Patriots, who had thoroughly scouted Edelman at KSU, picked the former quarterback in the seventh round of the 2009 NFL Draft, even though he wasn't even invited to the combine earlier that year. To Edelman's credit, he knew his size and shaky accuracy made quarterbacking unlikely in the NFL, so he prepared himself to play anywhere on offense and special teams, something that soon found him a role in New England.

The rest of Edelman's career has been, quite simply, spectacular. Sitting at fourth on the list of Patriots career receiving leaders, the California native has played a major part in three different title-winning teams, including being named Super Bowl LIII MVP. Additionally, the Pats offense has used Edelman's arm to success on a number of well-designed trick plays.

Despite taking multiple years to move past a solely special teams role, Edelman's work ethic and drive soon earned him the trust of Bill Belichick and Tom Brady on several high-powered Patriots offenses, despite his small seemingly unimpressive stature. Without his knowledge of the offense from quarterbacking at Kent State, it's hard to say if this rags-to-riches football story would have ever been possible, let alone even drafted in the NFL. Hard work and studying the game always pays off, even if it takes longer than most players would like.


Antwaan Randle-El

The Steelers of the 2000's had not one but two former quarterbacks in their receiving corps. Before making history in the NFL, Randle-El was a star quarterback at Indiana, even though concerns over his size raised doubts about his future in football when he was a three-sport star in high school.

While at Indiana, Randle-El established himself as one of the most dynamic players in the nation over his four seasons as a Hoosier, running and throwing for a total of 86 touchdowns throughout his career. In Randle-El's senior year, he finished sixth in Heisman voting.

While never exceptional, Randle-El was a solid second or third option during nine seasons in the league, and was one of the best kick returners in football. As a Steeler, the Illinois native was responsible for one of the greatest plays in NFL history. On a designed trick play in the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XL, Randle-El took a reverse pass and threw a 43-yard strike to (who else) Hines Ward. It was the first and only time a wide receiver had thrown a touchdown pass in the Super Bowl. The play broke open the game and provided the Steelers with their fifth championship.

Like Edelman, Randle-El overcame questions relating to his size, durability, and capability at the quarterback position, using his slight stature and quickness to his advantage while at Indiana and the NFL. Having traits such as throwing the ball and being a solid return man allow for players to see the field quickly, and can give you more opportunities to make your presence felt. Randle-El's story is a reminder that what others see as weakness can elevate your game at the college and professional levels.


Anquan Boldin

An NFL mainstay for fourteen seasons, Boldin initially played quarterback in high school. A three-sport star from Pahokee, Florida, Boldin was named Mr. Football in 1998 along with Florida Player of the Year and a USA Today First-Team selection. As a signal caller, he led Pahokee to an undefeated season, and was recruited as a pro-style quarterback in 1999.

Committing to Bobby Bowden's Florida State Seminoles, Boldin soon approached the legendary head coach about a position change that would get him on the field as soon as possible. Wanting his star freshman to get the ball in his hands, Bowden allowed for Boldin to take snaps at receiver, a position he had never played before in the NFL.

Over three seasons lining up on the outside, Boldin made 118 catches and grabbed 21 touchdowns as a Seminole, propelling him to a second round selection by the Arizona Cardinals in 2003. It's also worth noting that Bowden did give Boldin some snaps at quarterback during the receiver's third and final year in Tallahassee.

Boldin immediately made his presence felt in the NFL, becoming the 2003 Offensive Rookie of the Year with over 1,300 yards receiving. He would make three Pro Bowls while making an impact on four different teams, reaching the Super Bowl with three different franchises. A solid but sometimes underrated player, Boldin currently sits at ninth on the NFL's All-Time Receptions leaderboard.

A potential Hall of Famer, Anquan Boldin embodies the natural athleticism that enables some players to successfully switch out of being a quarterback. However, Boldin's desire to make an impact on the field, rather than wait for his chance, may have been the biggest reason why he became a receiver at FSU. His determination to master wide receiver, a position he had never played before, is a testament to the commitment needed to become a star player in the NFL, as well as a drive to help his team wherever he was needed.

Are you an Athlete?

Create a free profile to access the largest network specifically designed to connect athletes to opportunities. Get started.

RELATED ARTICLES
Recruitment Roadmap: Essential Tips & Resources for Athletes

Recruitment Roadmap: Essential Tips & Resources for Athletes

Are you an aspiring athlete looking to take your sports career to the next level? Whether you dream...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Jan 29 2024
The Recruiting Process Simplified: Tips for Athletes

The Recruiting Process Simplified: Tips for Athletes

Growing up, many athletes dream of hitting the game-winning shot. A stadium roaring with fans,...

ByTiffany Allen | Tue Jan 02 2024
GMTM Launches New Recruiting Education Course

GMTM Launches New Recruiting Education Course

“How do I get recruited?" This is a question we hear from athletes all the time at GMTM. We know...

ByTiffany Allen | Tue Dec 12 2023
Athlete Scholarships: Your Pathway to Success

Athlete Scholarships: Your Pathway to Success

Are you an athlete looking to unlock the path to your dreams with a college scholarship? Beyond...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Dec 07 2023
Beyond NCSA Athletic Recruiting: Get Ahead in Your Journey

Beyond NCSA Athletic Recruiting: Get Ahead in Your Journey

Navigating the recruiting landscape in sports can be difficult and complex. If you're an athlete,...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Nov 30 2023
What Do Coaches Want? Unlocking the Secrets of Athletic Recruitment for New Talent

What Do Coaches Want? Unlocking the Secrets of Athletic Recruitment for New Talent

Picture this: You're out on the field, giving your all, with the wind in your hair and the crowd's...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Nov 20 2023
Recruiting in Sports: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Recruiting in Sports: The Ultimate Step-by-Step Guide

Are you an athlete looking to uncover the keys to success in sports recruiting? Unlock your...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Nov 13 2023
How to Train for Football Combines & Camps

How to Train for Football Combines & Camps

The NFL combine is the ultimate opportunity for athletes to showcase themselves in front of NFL...

ByMathias Torp | Wed Nov 08 2023
5 Stages of College Recruiting Process

5 Stages of College Recruiting Process

The recruiting process can be compared to a funnel containing five specific stages. College coaches...

ByMathias Torp | Fri Nov 03 2023
Flag Football: Unlocking Your Path to Pro Sports

Flag Football: Unlocking Your Path to Pro Sports

Are you passionate about sports and dreaming of excelling in a new sport? Look no further than flag...

ByTiffany Allen | Fri Oct 13 2023
Recruiting for Football: The Ultimate Guide

Recruiting for Football: The Ultimate Guide

Are you a football coach or recruiter looking to build a winning team? Crucial for success on the...

ByTiffany Allen | Mon Sep 11 2023
AFFL Opens Talent ID Event For Upcoming Pro Tryouts In Dallas & Three Other Cities

AFFL Opens Talent ID Event For Upcoming Pro Tryouts In Dallas & Three Other Cities

The American Flag Football League is hosting an in-person tryout for male athletes interested in...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Jun 29 2023
Sports Career Success: Tips for College and Pro Athletes

Sports Career Success: Tips for College and Pro Athletes

Sports come with a unique set of challenges and opportunities. As an athlete, pursuing a career in...

ByTiffany Allen | Wed Jun 21 2023
Volleyball Recruits: 10 Tips For Acing The College Recruiting Process

Volleyball Recruits: 10 Tips For Acing The College Recruiting Process

The college volleyball recruiting process can be intimidating for high school athletes, but with...

ByOVA Team Ontario | Fri Jun 02 2023
Learn How USA Football Selects The Flag Football National Team

Learn How USA Football Selects The Flag Football National Team

The sport of Flag Football has continued to grow in popularity in recent years. The introduction to...

ByTiffany Allen | Thu Jun 01 2023
Athletes Who Earned Their USA Football Tryout Invite on GMTM

Athletes Who Earned Their USA Football Tryout Invite on GMTM

Does football season really end anymore? The day after the Super Bowl, which marks the end of the...

ByScotty Jenkins | Mon Mar 06 2023
How Many Scholarships Does Each Collegiate Sport Offer?

How Many Scholarships Does Each Collegiate Sport Offer?

It's time to start applying for schools and begin your recruiting process. You have been working...

ByJohnathan Wright | Tue Feb 21 2023
Sports Injuries and Insurance: Four Facts Parents & Recruits Should Know

Sports Injuries and Insurance: Four Facts Parents & Recruits Should Know

Injuries are a major part of athletics, and a high percentage of student-athletes competing in NCAA...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Feb 07 2023
American Football: How To Play Professional Football In Another Country?

American Football: How To Play Professional Football In Another Country?

Yes, it is definitely possible to play American football overseas. However, this is not common...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Jan 26 2023
New XFL Draft Picks use GMTM to be seen by coaches and fans

New XFL Draft Picks use GMTM to be seen by coaches and fans

In just under a month, the XFL will be taking yet another crack at creating a competing...

ByScotty Jenkins | Fri Jan 20 2023
Recruiting Rankings: Should I Be Worried If I’m Not A Ranked Basketball Player?

Recruiting Rankings: Should I Be Worried If I’m Not A Ranked Basketball Player?

Getting ranked - it’s the ultimate goal and source of motivation for many basketball players across...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sun Dec 04 2022
How similar is the NCAA Transfer Portal to free agency in professional sports?

How similar is the NCAA Transfer Portal to free agency in professional sports?

The NCAA Transfer Portal is a great platform that is beneficial to student-athletes. It allows...

ByScotty Jenkins | Fri Dec 02 2022
"What Is A 5-Star Recruit?": Explaining how high school basketball prospect rankings work

"What Is A 5-Star Recruit?": Explaining how high school basketball prospect rankings work

High School basketball players like Bronny James are all over TV and social media nowadays, with...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Dec 01 2022
College Soccer: What is the difference between NCAA Division-I & NAIA?

College Soccer: What is the difference between NCAA Division-I & NAIA?

Many soccer athletes across the United States aspire to play their sport at the college level, and...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sat Nov 26 2022
College Volleyball: What Is The Timeline For A High School Recruit

College Volleyball: What Is The Timeline For A High School Recruit

Playing volleyball at the collegiate level is almost every single player's dream as a young...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Nov 24 2022
Baseball Recruiting: Tips For How To Find A Showcase Team

Baseball Recruiting: Tips For How To Find A Showcase Team

It isn’t always easy to find a team that’s the right fit for you. It wasn’t easy for me. Some guys...

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Nov 23 2022
How To Improve Your Golf Game With A New Workout Routine

How To Improve Your Golf Game With A New Workout Routine

The potency of preparedness in winning all battles, from the most ferocious to the most trivial of...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Nov 22 2022
Five Ways To Boost Your Basketball Recruiting with Social Media

Five Ways To Boost Your Basketball Recruiting with Social Media

Instagram, Snapchat, LinkedIn, GMTM, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube, Facebook... Social media is a...

ByKeiwaine Hicks | Sat Nov 19 2022
Which High Schools In America Produce The Most Female College Athletes?

Which High Schools In America Produce The Most Female College Athletes?

It may come as no surprise to hear parents want what is best for their children. If parents have...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Nov 15 2022
How To Play Division-I College Football: Four Requirements For Every Athlete

How To Play Division-I College Football: Four Requirements For Every Athlete

It is no secret that it is often a young football athlete's dream to play their favorite sport at...

ByScotty Jenkins | Mon Nov 14 2022
Is playing Division-II college sports worth it?

Is playing Division-II college sports worth it?

Being a Division II collegiate athlete was one of the best experiences of my entire life. Having...

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Nov 08 2022
Bucket List: Five More College Football Traditions You Need To See

Bucket List: Five More College Football Traditions You Need To See

Part two of some of the best division 1 college football game day traditions throughout the United...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sat Nov 05 2022
Five major benefits of playing at a large high school for hopeful recruits

Five major benefits of playing at a large high school for hopeful recruits

Quality of Competition Large high schools tend to have bigger athletic departments and budgets....

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Nov 02 2022
Eight Football Athletes Using GMTM To Find Opportunities To Play

Eight Football Athletes Using GMTM To Find Opportunities To Play

There doesn't seem to be a clear start and finish to the football season anymore. In today’s day...

ByScotty Jenkins | Fri Oct 28 2022
College Volleyball Recruiting: How Athletes Can Get Ahead Before High School

College Volleyball Recruiting: How Athletes Can Get Ahead Before High School

The first step in getting recruited by a college volleyball team is to take advantage of the...

ByScotty Jenkins | Sun Oct 23 2022
The Four Best Quarterbacks Turned Wide Receivers in NFL History

The Four Best Quarterbacks Turned Wide Receivers in NFL History

Playing quarterback may be the toughest job in professional sports, with just thirty-two jobs in...

ByBryan Armetta | Sun Oct 16 2022
Three Tell-Tale Signs You Are Ready For College Sports

Three Tell-Tale Signs You Are Ready For College Sports

Plenty of high school athletes think they have what it takes to play sports in college. However,...

ByBryan Armetta | Thu Oct 13 2022
How Athletic Scholarships Work: A Quick Guide To Paying For College

How Athletic Scholarships Work: A Quick Guide To Paying For College

It is no secret that college is expensive, and as time goes on, the price continues to increase....

ByScotty Jenkins | Tue Oct 11 2022
Think you can play college football? Here’s what to expect in the recruiting process

Think you can play college football? Here’s what to expect in the recruiting process

Playing college football is a dream for many high schoolers but the recruiting process can be...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Oct 06 2022
College Football's "Dead Money": Why Fired Coaches Keep Getting Paid

College Football's "Dead Money": Why Fired Coaches Keep Getting Paid

We’re at the point in the college football calendar where teams are assessing whether they’d like...

ByAndrew Pistone | Wed Sep 28 2022
Soccer Recruiting: What College Coaches Look For In High School Recruits

Soccer Recruiting: What College Coaches Look For In High School Recruits

Realistically, soccer coaches and managers look out for different things in soccer players during...

ByScotty Jenkins | Wed Sep 28 2022
Volleyball Recruiting: Nine Questions For Recruits To Ask Volleyball Coaches

Volleyball Recruiting: Nine Questions For Recruits To Ask Volleyball Coaches

Finding a good college, team, coach, and place to spend four years of your life is important and...

ByRebekah Morris | Mon Sep 26 2022
College Football: Five Stars Who Could Have Benefitted Most from NIL Ruling

College Football: Five Stars Who Could Have Benefitted Most from NIL Ruling

The NCAA's Division I Board of Directors announced a new...

ByBryan Armetta | Sat Sep 24 2022
College Sports: How To Pick The Right School To Attend

College Sports: How To Pick The Right School To Attend

Picking the right college can be a tough task for any high school senior, but it can be a unique...

ByAlexis Peltzer-Harding | Fri Sep 23 2022
Where Is The Sport Of Lacrosse Most Popular?

Where Is The Sport Of Lacrosse Most Popular?

Lacrosse has long been known as an east coast sport in the United States, but has seen growth...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Sep 22 2022
What Does Redshirt Mean? And The Reasons Why Players Do It?

What Does Redshirt Mean? And The Reasons Why Players Do It?

Any athlete with a love for competition hates sitting on the sideline, but once he or she gets to...

ByCorey Roepken | Mon Sep 19 2022
What Every College Athlete Should Know Before Freshman Year Starts

What Every College Athlete Should Know Before Freshman Year Starts

The shift from high school to college is a big one. Throw playing a collegiate sport in and it can...

ByLily Ford | Sun Sep 18 2022
What CFB Programs Are Developing The Most NFL Talent At Each Position

What CFB Programs Are Developing The Most NFL Talent At Each Position

More than most sports, the fundamentals of Football change greatly depending on which position you...

ByAria Modirmassihai | Fri Sep 16 2022
Trending Up: High School Football Athletes on GMTM - Week 2

Trending Up: High School Football Athletes on GMTM - Week 2

Football is back and tens of thousands of high school football players are on the field making...

ByScotty Jenkins | Thu Sep 15 2022
The Positives of Playing Club Volleyball For College Recruits

The Positives of Playing Club Volleyball For College Recruits

Do you aspire to step into your next level as a collegiate volleyball player? Are you unsure if...

ByGrace White | Thu Sep 08 2022