Yes all can. The trinity scholars know they teach lies. In the Greek lexicons at both John 1:1 and 2 Cor 4:4, 2 beings are called Theon( God or god) But to show the difference at both spots the true God is called Ton Theon=God, the word and satan are both called Theon= god when in the same paragraph with Ton Theon. There have been many translations in history with a god at John 1:1
It can be "a god" I admit, but "theos" can also be used in a qualitative sense (the quality, attributes, or characteristics of someone or something.) The language in John 1 doesn't require the Word be a literal pre-existent being as a result.
For example, 2 Corinthians 1:12 refers to godly sorrow. 2 Corinthians 7:11 refers to a godly sort. 1 Tim 1:4 refers to godly edification. Each of these describe qualities of someone or something, even though they use the same exact word for the Word is theos in John 1:1.
This is the challenge with translating something. So even though I don't disagree with your translation, I say it's at least subjective if there are no examples of the Word pre-existing as a god. Are there any? Perhaps not. I can't find anything clear or explicit though I have a suspicion you could be right.
We can just as easily say that John 1:1 applies personification to the Word and there is ample evidence for that, too, where the Word (logos) and Jesus are in the same context they are not the same person or thing. 1 John 1:1-3 also refers to the "Word of Life" as an it, a thing, that was revealed or manifested in a man.
Just something to think about.