Former UCF quarterback Blake Bortles and linebacker Shaquem Griffin were Knights during different eras, but they both had to overcome skepticism about their skills throughout their careers.
On this date in 1992, Bortles was born in Central Florida and went on to become the highest draft pick in UCF history.
Bortles was a 6-foot-4, 230-pound quarterback who thrived at Oviedo High, setting a Seminole County record with 5,576 career passing yards and 53 touchdowns.
Most college football coaches, however, weren’t convinced he could play quarterback at the next level. He passed on multiple SEC offers to play tight end, committing to nearby UCF and then-recruiting coordinator Geoff Collins.