The National Football League has done away with the fullback position, but does the University of Alabama have a player that can restore the swagger of the role?
Robbie Ouzts, a South Carolina native, is a fourth-year tight end.
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He came as a three-star prospect in the Crimson Tide’s 2021 signing class, but he has excelled as a player. The tight end position is becoming more skilled than what it once was, yet Ouzts prides himself on doing the dirty work at a high level. He takes pride in blocking for teammates and doing all he can to help the Tide win games. Ouzts is arguably the best blocker on the team, while he can get out in pass routes and catch the football. Jim Nagy, the executive director of the Reese’s Senior Bowl, got a close look at Ouzts last week on Saban Field at Bryant-Denny Stadium versus Missouri. He projects the 6-foot-2, 272-pounder as a fullback.
Football is better with a fullback and Alabama’s Robbie Ouzts (6027v, 272v, 31 7/8 arm, 9 3/4 hand) is one of few potential draftable guys in this year’s class. Also might have best mustache in CFB.
Peak fullback aesthetic here:#TheDraftStartsInMOBILE™️ pic.twitter.com/vjwFs04xj4
— Jim Nagy (@JimNagy_SB) October 26, 2024
Ouzts’ passion for blocking and putting guys in the ground is needed in the NFL. Jalston Fowler, a former Alabama player, was the last fullback/H-back type to get drafted. He went in the fourth round (No. 108) of the 2015 NFL Draft to the Tennessee Titans.
The former two-time BCS National Champion spent four years in the league.
Ouzts has the physical makeup and potential to be a bruising fullback at the next level. He stated to reporters in Thursday’s availability that it would be an honor for him to play the position. Ouzts values ‘playing the game with toughness’ and ‘leading by example’ on the field. He has never been huge on stats and understands someone has to do the dirty work that no one else wants.
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“I’ll be him,” Ouzts said on being the dirty work guy.
Ouzts is preparing himself to create opportunities for others versus LSU next week.
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Stephen M. Smith is the senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
