Being under the radar is sometimes a good thing in sports. When prospects are selected in later rounds, they do not face pressure that would come earlier. On rare occasions, gems can be found similar to New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady.

The San Diego Chargers hopes that they’ve found one at this same position.

Brad Sorensen from FCS school Southern Utah was chosen by the San Diego Chargers in the seventh round of 2013’s NFL Draft. After operating primarily out of a spread offense in college, Sorensen demonstrated several traits that are valuable at this level.

A quick release is something evident from elite signal callers like Brady and Peyton Manning. When watching Sorensen, that skill also shows. Working out of shotgun formation provides him with a chance to deliver an accurate short pass, and he also possesses an ability to scramble and roll out on pass plays.

A perceived lack of competition may have led to his fall, but Sorensen played well against California by totaling four passing touchdowns.

That said, obtaining a starting role with San Diego will be a major long shot.

The Chargers acquired Philip Rivers via trade with the New York Giants during 2004’s NFL Draft. He was chosen to be their franchise quarterback for years to come. Rivers has incredible arm strength and a fiery personality. It may look obnoxious at times, but it energizes teammates.

Unfortunately, turnovers are an issue as Rivers has thrown at least 11 interceptions in five of the last six seasons. There is a new regime with GM Tom Telesco and head coach Mike McCoy. They might support Rivers now but if he continues to be somewhat erratic, one must wonder what would happen.

Charlie Whitehurst also returns after spending two seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. Previously touted as a potential starter, he tallied a lackluster three touchdowns and four interceptions. As a backup however, there is no harm in having Whitehurst due to his height and arm stregnth.

Mike Hermann signed while not being chosen in 2013’s Draft. Despite coming from Division III Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, there is a chance that he could hang on. Troubles from losing a mother at two-years old and dealing with physical abuse from an ill father have  helped make make him mentally tough.

While Sorensen shows potential, one report states he will not have a major role, calling him a “camp arm.”

I feel his 6-foot-5 stature, along with 61 touchdowns and 27 interceptions, provides promise. Even though the only writing available on his OTAs is about passes being batted down, there remains hope for this lifelong Chargers fan to succeed. In an interview with Chargers.com, Sorensen called being with his new team a “chance of a lifetime” and is also ready to compete.