Vikings quarterback Josh Dobbs is a man of many talents. The 28-year-old has a degree in aerospace engineering from the University of Tennessee, a subject he says shares some similarities with playing quarterback in the NFL.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Dobbs explained how being a professional quarterback and working as an aerospace engineer aren’t all that different.
"Engineering and quarterback have a lot of crossover, just in the mental aspect," Dobbs said.
“When you’re an engineer in school, you show up day one as a freshman and they just throw a ton of problems at you. You have to critically think of how to solve those problems.” said Dobbs. “Football is the same way... As a quarterback, you have to get your team in the right play. Critically think of ‘am I in the right play now?’ or ‘what play do I need to get to attack this defense?’ and repeat process.”
Aerospace engineering and football might be more connected than you think🧐 pic.twitter.com/qwwI0lmhPx
— Minnesota Vikings (@Vikings) November 15, 2023
Dobbs said that critically thinking and the ability to make adjustments on the fly were two key similarities between quarterbacking and aerospace engineering, although the lack of a play clock in his engineering classes made things a bit less rushed.
"It's cool to have been able to work that muscle throughout my college career off the field, as well as on the field," Dobbs said.
Dobbs has certainly showcased his ability to process a lot of new information quickly since arriving in Minnesota.
Expected to be the Vikings’ backup amid the season-ending injury to Kirk Cousins, Dobbs was thrust into the starting role following an injury to Jaren Hall. He’s since led the team to two wins, including a victory in his home debut on Sunday.
