Jaguars New Fullbacks Will Block First, Rush Later
By Larry Brake
The Jacksonville Jaguars new fullbacks will block instead of being additional runners.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have two fullbacks on their current roster. Tommy Bohanon signed as free agent and Marquez Williams was drafted in the seventh round this year. Their first job will be to block due to the change in the fullback’s role over the years.
The greatest runner, to have ever played, was Jim Brown, a fullback. Brown rushed for over 12,000 yards in nine seasons a Cleveland Brown. He played from 1957-1965 when fullbacks were major contributors on offense.
Franco Harris, a fullback, is remembered for the “Immaculate Reception”. Harris rushed for over 12,000 yards in thirteen season in Pittsburgh. Harris is a member of Pro Football’s Hall of Fame.
John Riggins, a fullback, was the feature back in Joe Gibbs’ Washington Redskins offense. He rushed for 11,352 yards in his career. He was nicknamed “The Diesel” because of his running style.
Today’s fullbacks are blockers first, that is, if the team even carries one. Some fullbacks are used as receivers on screens and dump off passes. Daryl Johnston was Emmitt Smith‘s lead blocker in Dallas. Smith is the all time leading rusher in NFL history.
Expect The Jacksonville Fullbacks To Block First, Run At Goal Line, Maybe
First of all, Bohanon was the fullback for the New York Jets Chris Ivory. As a result, in 2015, Ivory had 1070 yards and seven touchdowns. Bohanon had 67 yards in three seasons as a Jet fullback. Bohanon stands six foot one and weighs 246 pounds. He is physically similar to former Tampa Bay fullback Mike Alstott. However, he will not carry the ball like the “A Train” did.
Next, Marquez Williams is a huge fullback, physically. At six foot one and weighing 260 pounds, Williams is going to be the lead blocker for Leonard Fournette. His kick out blocks on the corner will enable Fournette to get downfield quickly. In addition, he will provide maximum pass protection in passing situations. At the goal line, he will push the pile and score.
In conclusion, do not expect either fullback to rush for over a thousand yards in 2017. The Jaguars offense is better with a fullback. Hopefully, they lead Jacksonville to the AFC South title, too.