Virginia Tech sophomore-to-be Duan Perez-Means has decided to move from defensive end to tight end. He requested the position change after taking a look at the depth chart and seeing a better opportunity of playing time next season at tight end. 

The 6-foot-4, 240-pound Perez-Means was once a standout tight end at Hermitage High in Richmond, Va. – he averaged 27 yards a catch his senior year – but he spent last season as a reserve defensive end. He played in all 14 games and recorded eight tackles and a quarterback hurry. 

Perez-Means told Frank Beamer’s website that tight end is his natural position. He played there on the scout team for the Hokies and felt he could be a contributor there. He will try to work himself into the Hokies’ tight end rotation with junior Eric Martin, sophomore Ryan Malleck and senior Randall Dunn. 

He wants to gain 10 pounds and play at 250 when spring practice begins. He has requested to wear No. 81, which now should be available with the graduation of Hokies all-time receptions and receiving yards leader Jarrett Boykin.