Tate Martell could find himself lining up somewhere other than under center for Miami this season.
The redshirt sophomore is open to changing positions after losing the Hurricanes’ quarterback battle earlier this month, coach Manny Diaz told reporters Wednesday.
“It’s like anybody else we have,” Diaz said, via the Miami Herald. “Anybody will help by doing anything that’s available, so yeah.”
Martell was beaten out for the starting job by redshirt freshman Jarren Williams and Diaz said he has yet to make a decision about the team's backup. Martell and N’Kosi Perry are in the running for that spot.
QB1.
— Canes Football (@CanesFootball) August 12, 2019
“All three guys showed tremendous improvement and development," Diaz said in a statement in mid-August. “We believe we can win with all three guys, however, we feel like Jarren has the greatest upside due to his passing ability, his instincts and his determination.
"Obviously Jarren is a gifted passer. He has learned, I think, the maturity that comes with being the starting quarterback at a place like Miami. He is becoming more and more comfortable with the offense."
Martell transferred from Ohio State to Miami in January shortly after former Georgia quarterback Justin Fields decided to join the Buckeyes. The NCAA granted Martell a waiver that made him immediately eligible to play in 2019.
Martell redshirted in 2017 and made six appearances as the backup to Buckeyes star signal-caller Dwayne Haskins last season, completing 23 of his 28 passes for 269 yards and a touchdown. He also added two scores on the ground.
Miami is set to open the season against Florida on Saturday in Orlando.