In 2003 the tight end position looked like a forgotten one in the Bills' offensive philosophy. Mark Campbell, Dave Moore, and Ryan Neufeld combined to represent just 15 percent of the offense's receptions and 15 percent of the team's total receiving yards. Yet at the same time they also accounted for more than a quarter of the team's scoring, not counting Rian Lindell's points. Imagine if the tight ends were used more, particularly in the red zone.
The approach in 2004 figures to be different with new head coach Mike Mularkey and new offensive coordinator Tom Clements. Campbell and Neufeld are encouraged by what they're seeing in the spring workouts.
"Some of what we'll be doing will be the same, but there are a lot of different wrinkles, so schematically there are going to be some different things," said Campbell.
"I think we probably will have a bigger role (this year)," said Neufeld who currently holds the backup tight end role. "I think we'll do a lot of two tight end sets, and provide good flexibility because the second tight end could be spread out or in the slot running routes, or taking on the responsibility of the fullback position."
With a greater focus expected on running the football there's certainly the potential for more two tight end sets, but Campbell cautions that the coaching staff is still evaluating talent.
The approach in 2004 figures to be different with new head coach Mike Mularkey and new offensive coordinator Tom Clements. Campbell and Neufeld are encouraged by what they're seeing in the spring workouts.
"Some of what we'll be doing will be the same, but there are a lot of different wrinkles, so schematically there are going to be some different things," said Campbell.
"I think we probably will have a bigger role (this year)," said Neufeld who currently holds the backup tight end role. "I think we'll do a lot of two tight end sets, and provide good flexibility because the second tight end could be spread out or in the slot running routes, or taking on the responsibility of the fullback position."
With a greater focus expected on running the football there's certainly the potential for more two tight end sets, but Campbell cautions that the coaching staff is still evaluating talent.
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