Training Camp Preview: Full-backs
By Brian Miller
When I first sat down to start looking at the FB roster, I thought there might be an interesting battle for the 2nd spot at this position. However, I am no longer certain that it is so much a battle for the spot as much as it is a spot that is Reagan Mauias’ to lose.
The Roster:
"Kyle Eckel – 1 yearReagan Mauia – rookieCorey Schlesinger – 13 years"
"Corey Schlesinger: This is the undisputed starter and probably the biggest addition on offense next to the signing of Trent Green. Corey will improve the running game more than the additions of any running back."
"The Good: Just about all of him. He can still catch, he is a monster at blocking and reading the defensive blitz schemes. He knows what his responsibilities are and will open holes for the RBs. This is a guy that many a Lions fan did not want to see leave. Schlesinger could be a dangerous part of the passing game as well, and it will be worth watching to see how Cameron uses him in that portion of the game."
"The Bad: If there is any it has to be his age and his speed. He is not the fastest FB in the league by far, but he does not need to be. His age could be a problem as he acclimates to the Florida heat, but even that should be a minimal problem for someone who has been around as long as he has."
Outlook/Predictions:
"None. He has already made the final roster. He will not compete for the starting job as he is the starter. The interesting portion of his training camp will be how he is used and whether he is primarily a blocker or if he becomes part of the passing attack."
"Kyle Eckel: Eckel was a 2 year Navy officer and went the New England, Pittsburgh, route to Miami. Undrafted he was signed as a FA last year and was active for 2 games."
"The Good: Solid blocker and decent hands, but unremarkable."
"The Bad: Experience. Speed. Knowledge of the game. I seem to recall some Navy problems with him as well."
Outlook/Predictions:
"Eckel will be competing with Rookie Mauia for a roster spot. He may benefit from Cameron carrying 3 full backs on the roster, should that route be taken. However, with 4 RBs likely be carried, I don’t see 3 full backs being kept on the 53. Eckel could see the practice squad if he gets cut."
"Reagan Mauia: One of the 3 Hawaiian rookies taken in the draft. He is a motor that goes non-stop and his wall busting antics on Youtube have been played and replayed since the day following the draft."
"The Good: Size. 270 pounds, he used to play on the Dline before being converted to an offensive back. His hands are o.k. if unspectacular but it is his ability to barrel down on defensemen that he will make a name for himself."
"The Bad: He is a rookie who is very raw. He has only been an offensive player for little over 1 season. He will need to learn NFL discipline and it will be interesting to see how fast he picks up the NFL pace and the playbook."
Outlook/Predictions:
"Mauia should make the team. At least many a fans think so as he has already become a fan favorite for what he has done to walls. If Mauia can translate his reckless abandonment on defensemen and learn to structure that adrenaline, he could turn out to be a very solid NFL FB. He will have the opportunity to learn from one of the best in Schlesinger."
The FB spot will be interesting to watch in terms of all 3 of the current rostered players. Schlesinger for how he is used and the other two for who makes the biggest impression. It is not out of the question for all 3 to make the team but I think that will be unlikely. I think that Mauia will make the team. He was drafted by Cameron. He has a long way to go, but I think he possesses what Cameron likes to have in the FB position. Eckel will likely be the odd man out.