Switching positions in any sport is tough, especially in football. Each position requires its own skill set, meaning players have to put in the work to learn and adjust.
Oklahoma Sooners’ Jaren Kanak recently switched from linebacker to tight end. When asked how he’s adjusting, his response was nothing short of hilarious.
Jaren Kanak’s Position Switch and Priceless Response
OKLAHOMA JAREN KANAK ON ADJUSTING FROM LINEBACKER TO TIGHT END AND LEARNING TO CATCH THE BALL.
“I’VE BEEN ON THOSE JUGS LIKE A BABY ON MILK.”
QUOTE OF THE DAY 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/b8gj61McLh
— MLFootball (@_MLFootball) March 11, 2025
On a serious note, Kanak was already a standout on offense in high school in Kansas. He decided to go back to his roots because he felt the team wasn’t seeing his full potential and believed he wasn’t a natural on defense.
Over three years, he recorded 103 total tackles, seven tackles for loss, and two sacks while playing both linebacker and special teams. He also forced two fumbles and recovered two, returning one for a touchdown last season.
However, Kanak found himself stuck on the depth chart behind Danny Stutsman, Kip Lewis, and Kobie McKinzie.
After giving it some thought, he brought up the idea of switching positions with his coaches.
“The thing about me is I never want to look back and have regret that I didn’t put all my cards and do all that I could,” Kanak said after a recent practice.
“I had an exit interview with Coach (Brent) Venables and Coach (Zac) Alley before Coach Alley went where he is now,” the Sooner explained.
“We sat down and talked about it and came to a point like, ‘Yeah, man, it can be one of those things.’ I can be up at the facility for every hour of the day and love it as much as I do. But it’s like if it’s natural, or it’s not natural,” he continued.
“I would have needed to be doing it for a decade to be natural. I felt like I was always a step behind. I always like to think I could give more, but I like to say that I genuinely put as much as I could into becoming a linebacker.
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Kanak’s transition to tight end seems to be a natural fit, and his hard work is already showing.
While switching positions is never easy, his confidence and dedication suggest he’s ready to make a big impact. With his athleticism and experience, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him thrive in his new role and become a key part of the Sooners’ offense this season.
“I’ve been an offensive guy my whole life. Getting this opportunity now to do that again, catch balls, and have fun and block and all that stuff. It’s a great opportunity.”
