When faced with adversity, change is inevitable.

With the offensive line taking a hit with several players out, rookie defensive lineman Randy Colling took snaps on the offensive line during Stamps practice on Monday.

Naturally, there will be an adjustment period for the Arcade, N.Y., native.

“It felt different,” Colling said. “Towards the end, it started to feel more natural. In playing defensive line, you’re always going forward and with the offensive line, it’s the opposite. But it started feeling good and I’m excited.”

Photo by Angela Burger

It remains to be determined where Colling’s long-term future as a pro lies but, in the meantime, head coach Dave Dickenson wants to see what the 2017 first-round pick has to offer on the offensive side.

“He’s a tweener, a guy that can play on both sides,” Dickenson said. “I wanted to get a look at him on the offensive line – it’s something that was worth it for right now and we’ll see where it goes from there.”

Offensive line coach Pat DelMonaco is pleased with Colling’s enthusiasm and work ethic.

“He handled it really well,” DelMonaco said of Colling’s first day at his new job. “He was excited to do it and that’s the No. 1 thing, to not worry about being perfect and just to be aggressive.”

Photo by Rob McMorris

Colling played offensive line during his stint with the Buffalo Bills in 2014, but for most of his career – including his college days at Gannon University – he’s been focused on attacking the quarterback, not defending him.

Ultimately, Colling is focused in helping the team any way he can. It’s a learning experience but also a chance to further develop his skills and become a versatile player.

“I’m going to do whatever the team needs and want to be out on the field as much as possible. If it means being an o-lineman so be it,” Colling said. “It’s like learning a whole new language with the terminology. Things I’ve never heard but once I get a hold of it, it’s going to be pretty good.”