Everyone wants a hybrid player on offense that they can use in a variety of ways to change the pace up. The Philadelphia Eagles have Darren Sproles. The New Orleans Saints have Jimmy Graham. The Oakland Raiders believe Marcel Reece will be that x-factor for them. The fullback has been the quiet star for the Oakland Raiders in the four years he has been with the team and after a breakout season in 2013, Reece is ready for more responsibilities.
In 2013, Reece put up 218 yards rushing and another 331 yards receiving with four touchdowns total. However, he was overshadowed by Rashad Jennings' big season and drama surrounding Darren McFadden. However, Jennings is gone and Reece remains. Now, head coach Dennis Allen and offensive coordinator Greg Olson have big plans to spotlight Reece's versatility this season.
Allen told the media (via Vic Tafur of San Francisco Chronicle) that Reece will not only be used as a running back, but also a hybrid tight end on passing plays. While Reece is an excellent rusher and run blocker, he has solid hands that would pair him well next to tight end Mychal Rivera. This should be music to the ears of Raiders' fans everywhere. Reece has been underutilized in his four years with the team. He has not been on the field enough and given the struggles of McFadden, getting the fullback involved more can only help Oakland.
Reece has an interesting build. He is too big to be a wide receiver, but undersized to be a tight end. His catching abilities make him a waste at running back so fullback is the natural position. Oakland is planning on lining Reece up in almost every spot to keep him as productive as possible with his skillset.
Reece is just another fold in the offensive drama for Oakland. With Matt Schaub set as the starting quarterback, the team is trying to figure out the right mix of players to start on the field. They are lacking a true No. 1 wide receiver, opting for pass catching by committee instead. They are also hoping the running back tandem of McFadden and Maurice Jones-Drew turns out to be more productive for both backs this season. Reece is another piece to the puzzle as All and Olson try and figure out a plan moving forward. One thing is certain, Raiders' fans should get used to hearing Reece's name called a lot.
