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Georgia Tech Football Countdown to Kickoff: No.14 QB James Graham

By Dylan Callaghan-Croley

ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 1: Ramblin' Wreck of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets enters the field prior to their game against the Alcorn State Braves at Bobby Dodd Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images)
ATLANTA, GA - SEPTEMBER 1: Ramblin' Wreck of the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets enters the field prior to their game against the Alcorn State Braves at Bobby Dodd Stadium on September 1, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Michael Chang/Getty Images) /
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There are just two weeks remaining until Georgia Tech kicks off their 2019 season which puts redshirt freshman James Graham in the spotlight.

James Graham as a true freshman last season appeared in three games for the Yellow Jackets. In those three games, Graham ran the ball five times for 27-yards while also completing his lone pass of the season for 22-yards. The Fitzgerald, Georgia native would’ve most likely played in the Jackets bowl game against Minnesota too but was ruled academically ineligible for the game. The academic ineligibility would put a grey cloud and guestions over Graham for the offseason. However, Graham would become eligible to play again last week after working hard this past offseason in the classroom. A good sign of the dedication and how much Graham wants to be a part of the Tech program.

Graham coming out of high school was considered an athlete with the potential to play a variety of positions. After being originally committed to Virginia Tech as a wide receiver, Graham flipped to the Yellow Jackets when Paul Johnson offered Graham, the opportunity to play quarterback.

That being said, coming out of high school, Graham wasn’t the most polished quarterback but was a great athlete. While that would be beneficial in Paul Johnson’s offense, Graham will need to be a better passer in the Jackets new offense under offensive coordinator Dave Patenuade. With that, it’s hard seeing Graham making enough strides as a passer over the last year which means his chance at seeing time on the field this year at quarterback is probably limited.

That being said, Geoff Collins made it clear that his players will be a versatile and play multiple positions if possible. Graham whether it be this year or next year could be a player the Jackets move around on offense in attempts to get the dynamic playmaker opportunities with the ball.

Whether it be at quarterback or somewhere else, Graham has the chance to be an impact player for the Jackets over the next three seasons. The potential is there for Graham and he only question is, “can the Georgia Tech coaching staff tap into that potential?” Only time will tell but Graham’s development will be one to watch in the upcoming weeks, months, and years.

The Yellow Jackets have just 14 days remaining until they start their 2019 season off on August 29th against the defending national champions, the Clemson Tigers.