Los Angeles Chargers safety JT Woods is making a significant shift this season by transitioning to outside cornerback.
This change comes as he seeks to solidify his place on the team after struggling to find a role as a safety, where competition was tough with established players like AJ Finley and Thomas Harper.
Woods, 24, has focused on cornerback in recent practices, and this new position could be the key to reviving his career with the Chargers.
His recent performances suggest he is adapting well to the change, which has caught the attention of the coaching staff.
The coaching staff has emphasized the importance of versatility among players, and Woods’ ability to adapt to different roles could enhance his chances of making the final roster.
Chargers defensive coordinator Jesse Minter shared that versatility is directly correlated with the recent success of Woods.
"I think versatility is huge for him. He's done fairly well, he's had success in practice," Minter told reporters on Wednesday.
His recent practice sessions have primarily been dedicated to cornerback, and he saw significant action in this role during the Chargers’ recent preseason game against the Los Angeles Rams.
While it remains uncertain if this position change will be permanent, Woods has the physical attributes needed to succeed as a cornerback.
"Number one I think it's for their own individual value for the roster and trying to put themselves in the best position," Minter said .
"I think you got to be really careful sometimes of 'Who is the next best football player?' If your fourth guy goes down, I want the next-best player in the game. OK, he's a safety, he's a corner, he's a nickel. I want the next best football player in there."
The Chargers selected him in the third round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Baylor, and this new opportunity may help him meet the expectations that come with that selection.
"I think we try to approach it that way in teaching the guys position," Minter added . "It doesn't always perfectly line up like that. A corner can't go in there and always play safety and vice versa but I do think the versatility allows you to try to keep your best players out there and always have that next best guy available."
As the Chargers continue to evaluate their roster, Woods’ adaptability could play a crucial role in his future with the team. If he can thrive in this new position, it could open up new possibilities for both him and the Chargers defense.
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