Fullback/Tight End
1. William Howard (FB), 1984-1987
An All-SEC running back, William Howard was truly the do-it-all fullback who thrived in Tennessee football’s I-Formation in the 1980s. As a result, he would add a level of versatility to any offense, making him a great feature player on Johnny Majors’ all-time depth chart. Howard had over 1,711 career rushing yards and over 600 career receiving yards with 22 total touchdowns.
Those are incredible numbers, and then there is his size at 6’0″ 240 pounds. He was a fullback in every way, and in 1986, he led the SEC in scoring with 14 rushing touchdowns. Majors and any offensive coordinator would have great use for him, which is why he tops the list.
2. Reggie Harper (TE), 1977-1980
While William Howard would be the versatile fullback, Reggie Harper would be the guy to line up at tight end in this system. He did have over 1,100 receiving yards for his career along with seven total touchdowns, proving his value in the system, and he earned All-SEC honors in 1979 with 323 receiving yards and three touchdowns, helping Johnny Majors to his first bowl game.
Harper and Howard together would be a great tandem, allowing for Johnny Majors and his staff to mix things up between the I-formation, the veer and the true pro-style. At the time, tight ends was still primarily a blocking position, so those receiving numbers by Harper are a big deal.
3. Greg Amsler, 1986-1990
Greg Amsler would likely be able to line up at tight end if he had to. After all, Amsler did have 52 receptions for 488 yards and a touchdown at UT, and at 6’3″, he could shoulder the load. But his go-to spot is fullback. At 232 pounds, he’s a solid blocker, and he had 658 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on the ground in college.