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Texas A&M’s 275-Pound Tight End Could Be Marcel Reed’s X-Factor
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- Texas A&M’s 275-Pound Tight End Could Be Marcel Reed’s X-Factor
(Maria Lysaker-Imagn Images)
Texas A&M football may have uncovered a 275-pound problem for opposing defenses.
Redshirt freshman tight end Kiotti Armstrong turned heads during the Aggies ' opening preseason practice, and it wasn't simply because he's difficult to miss.
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The 6-5 Armstrong showed enough athleticism along the sideline to suggest he could become an unexpected weapon for quarterback Marcel Reed and new offensive coordinator Holmon Wiggins.
Armstrong worked outside on an out route, secured the pass and controlled his body well enough to remain in bounds.
It was only one play during the first practice of camp, but it offered a glimpse of what Texas A&M could have if the former Jasper standout is ready for a larger role.
A man that size shouldn't move that smoothly.
Armstrong appeared in only two games during his first season, so his college résumé is essentially blank. His physical tools, however, are impossible to ignore.
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If he can prove he's dependable as a blocker and polished enough as a route runner, he could give the Aggies a completely different kind of matchup piece.
Texas A&M already has veteran Micah Riley, the most trusted and complete tight end in the room. Riley's blocking ability makes him especially valuable when the Aggies use one or two tight ends.
Houston Thomas and Richie Anderson bring more receiving ability after arriving through the transfer portal.
Then there's Armstrong, who looks like someone built in a laboratory to torment linebackers and safeties.
His development would also fit perfectly with the larger transformation of the Aggies' offense. Texas A&M lacked consistent size in the passing game last season, but that concern has been addressed.
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Alabama transfer Isaiah Horton gives Reed a 6-4, 215-pound target on the perimeter, while Armstrong could create similar problems across the middle and in the red zone.
Defenses might be able to match Armstrong with a linebacker strong enough to handle him physically, but that player may not have the speed to stay with him.
A defensive back could run with Armstrong, but asking a safety to battle a 275-pound tight end at the catch point is another issue entirely.
That's the potential.
Armstrong still has plenty to prove before he becomes a regular part of the rotation. One impressive practice rep doesn't guarantee a breakout season, and Texas A&M has enough depth at tight end that playing time won't simply be handed to him.
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But the Aggies don't need Armstrong to become a star immediately. They need him to become useful, reliable and dangerous in specific situations.
If that happens, Marcel Reed may have just gained the biggest wild card in Texas A&M's offense.
