The new regime in Oakland is looking for a few good Raiders to be part of the team's long-term plans. It found a willing choice in fullback Marcel Reece.
The team announced Friday that it signed Reece to a three-year contract extension. Reece is coming off his first Pro Bowl season, during which he showed off his rushing skills (4.6 yards-per-carry) with 496 receiving yards on 52 catches.
NFL Media Insider Ian Rapoport reported that the three-year extension for Reece is worth more than $13 million with $7.2 million guaranteed, according to a source informed of the deal. Per Rapoport, that's the most guaranteed money ever given to a fullback.
"It's another step to my goal -- being a Raider for life. I plan on playing for as long as God will allow me to. If it's for a lot longer, I want it all to be with the Raiders," Reece said, via the team's official website. "Al Davis believed in me more than I did myself at times, and it meant a lot to me. I take it to heart and I take it seriously. Mark Davis has loved me the same."
Reece is a rare commodity in the NFL: A versatile fullback who is highly valued. He can line up as a tailback and even as slot receiver on occasion, giving offensive coordinator Greg Olsen a lot of options. He's also one of the most fun players in the NFL to watch.
The Raiders need more core players, and this deal is a nice, but small start. Now general manager Reggie McKenzie just has to find more players like Reece.
The "Around The League Podcast" is now available on iTunes! Click here to listen to our Week 2 preview.
