Marcel Reece has yet to find his spot with the Oakland Raiders. The fullback has a unique skill set that the team has not figured out the best way to utilize on the field. After signing a four-year, $14.4 million contract, Reece was expecting some more action on the field, something Dennis Allen has not built upon.
Last week, Reece had three catches for 30 yards which averaged his season touches per game. That is simply not enough field time for a player that has already earned a trip to the Pro Bowl and has a contract worth $7.2 million in guaranteed money. On the season, Reece has 57 yards rushing and 15 catches for 138 yards. He has taken a backseat to Darren McFadden and Rashad Jennings who get more playing time over the fullback. Reece has remained quiet on his status with the team, but he is not denying his desire to touch the ball more.
"I keep telling you guys it's going to come my way, and when it does, rest assured I'm going to be ready for it," Reece said, via the Contra Costa Times. "Do I want the ball? Yes, I want the ball. Do I want it often? Yes, I want it often. I want the ball every time I step on the field. It's just reality that the game doesn't always go that way."
Allen agrees that more playing time for Reece is on the way. The issue is Jennings. The head coach is reluctant to put Reece in if the running back has the hot hand at the moment. The fullback was supposed to see more playing time against the Giants, but Jennings was busy putting up 88 yards on 20 carries.
"When you get in those situations, you stick with the hot hand," Allen said. "This week we'll have a plan to get Marcel some touches. Hopefully we'll be able to do that."
Reece understands that the offensive system does not always call for him. The fullback has played 140 fewer snaps than tight end Mychal Rivera who lines up all over the field. Greg Olson's system calls for extra wide receivers more times than not, leaving the fullback off the field.
With McFadden injured and quarterback Terrelle Pryor limited with knee issues, Marcel Reece could see an increased amount of playing time. The full back has been working with the offensive coordinator and it could pay off this week.
