Michigan football tight ends could see new role on the field

The Michigan football season is only a day away. At last week’s media availability, the media spoke with junior tight end Max Bredeson. Bredeson had a lot to say about the tight end room, more specifically about their role on the field this season. This year’s tight ends will be taking a much different approach than past seasons.

Michigan’s tight ends may see playing time not only as receivers but as fullbacks in the backfield. A few years ago, Michigan football used the fullback position often, especially with the type of players like Ben Mason. This year they are ready to possibly bring it back, but in a different way.

Michigan football tight end Max Bredeson is developing his fullback abilities

When Max Bredeson was asked about his role on the field, he had this to say: “I’ve been happy doing all the backfield blocking stuff, all the fullback stuff.” He continued, “That’s what I love doing, something I take pride in, so something I want to keep working … I love catching passes, I’ve had some good catches, but I really take pride in my blocking. I take a lot of pride in my blocking, but there have been some good catches. Had a good wheel route.”

With a deep tight end room, these players are able to expand their game and go beyond the textbook tight end position. Bredeson was asked about how he learned the fullback position and said, “I watched a little bit of Michigan former fullbacks – it was kind of different back then so it’s hard to take a lot from them. I’ve watched two NFL guys with Kyle Juszcyk, Alec Ingold, a little bit of Derek Watt. But I’m trying to create my own path, try to find what I do best.”

Max Bredeson could take many people by surprise with his skill that goes far beyond what anyone expected. When asked what makes him a good fullback, he replied, “Honestly I’d say when you picture fullback you see almost a guard in the backfield, but I take pride in that. I can block well, I’ve put on weight, I’m heavier than I was last year but I also can run routes at a tight end level. So versatility is what I pride myself in.”

Wolverine tight ends could all contribute in the backfield

Bredeson is not the only tight end working on this fullback role. “It’s kind of a unique spot. I’d say Zack Marshall kind of does it too. It’s kind of by the set, Colston is sometimes back there too. We kind of let everyone still do it, it’s something good to have. You never know when you need it. Like Colston’s touchdown from the Big Ten championship, he came out of the backfield. So everyone still kind of does it.”

Be on the lookout for this new role for the Michigan tight ends this season. It will be fun to watch and Michigan fans should be excited.

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