Gaddis Moved to Cornerback Despite Reservations |
CLEMSON - The anticipated move of C.J. Gaddis finally took place Monday at Clemson's spring camp. The talented redshirt freshman, third on the depth chart at quarterback, was switched to cornerback by head coach Tommy Bowden. Problem is, depending on who's talking the move could be for as long as a month or a short as a day. From Bowden's standpoint, Gaddis has the potential to be a standout cornerback - providing instant depth where it's much needed, while at the same time perhaps grooming himself for a starting job there as soon as next season. "He's got to get on the field. It's like Chansi Stuckey. It's not that Chansi Stuckey can't play quarterback, but he can help us get to where we want to be by playing another position," Bowden said following Monday's workout. "I think it's the same thing with C.J. But with C.J. you've got to carry it a step further, because he could probably be a very productive wideout or tailback. But with the skill we've got (at those positions) we feel comfortable with it, while we're struggling a little bit with our corners. He's got the potential to go over there and help us with our depth, and he's got the ability to be an eventual starter."
Gaddis, however, appears to be looking at the move in drastically different terms. "It was just to see how I fit there. I don't think it's permanent," he said. "It's not my personality, to be honest. I've never played without the ball in my hand at some point and time. It was different." Gaddis also said he felt the move was more of a "day by day thing. If I like it, I might stay over there. I think it's more my decision, and I'm just looking at it right now." Asked where he wanted to play, Gaddis didn't hesitate. "Quarterback. But it's obvious I probably won't get on the field there this year." Bowden agreed that the move might not be permanent, but said any decision to move Gaddis again wouldn't come until after the spring. Gaddis will stay at cornerback at least through the April 10 Orange and White game. Told Gaddis apparently wasn't happy with the move, Bowden shrugged. "I wasn't real happy when we lost to Wake, either," he said. "(Change) is part of this profession." In other news, tight end Ben Hall appears poised to reclaim the No. 1 spot at his position over Bobby Williamson. Bowden also had more kind words for wide receiver Kelvin Grant, who has put together four quality practices in a row. Offensive tackle Tim DeBeer missed Monday's workout with an ankle injury, while fellow tackle Marion Dukes returned after missing two days with a death in his family.
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