East Michigan News

Eastern Michigan University junior tight end Max Reese is gearing up for a pivotal season. As he enters his third year in Ypsilanti, Reese aims to highlight his skills and make a significant impact on the field. Describing himself as a "receiving tight end" with "sneaky speed," Reese is eager to contribute to the Eagles' offense.

"We look explosive, we look dynamic," Reese said about the tight end group this season. With a mix of returning players and new transfers, the team expects to add a new dimension to their offensive strategy. "We're all looking to make an impact this year, so I think it'll be a real good year for us," he added.

In modern football, tight ends are crucial offensive components, often serving as reliable targets for quarterbacks. Reese understands this role well. "Just giving them that extra big target to go up and get the ball," he explained. "We bring a different dynamic to the game, just another aspect of explosiveness."

Standing at 6-foot-2, Reese may not be the tallest in his position but combines height with athleticism effectively. "A lot of people, you know, look at me and don't immediately see it, but once you get in the game, you realize I can't be pressed up on or treated like a regular tight end," he noted.

The addition of Assistant Coach Chris Chestnut has further enhanced Reese's performance. "Having him there and his ball knowledge helps us play more freely and be ourselves," said Reese. He emphasized that Chestnut's expertise would benefit both receiving plays and blocking techniques.

Blocking has been an area of focus for Reese during the offseason. "I was criticized for my blocking in my earlier years," he admitted. Transitioning from playing receiver in high school required adjustments in mentality and technique for him.

Despite competition among quarterbacks for starting positions, Reese values his connection with all signal-callers on the team. "I love the competition throughout all the quarterbacks," he said. He stressed that teamwork among them would reflect positively on-field performance regardless of who starts.

Reese is particularly looking forward to Week 2 when EMU faces Washington Huskies—a personal milestone given his Seattle roots. However, he remains focused on current preparations while embracing this year's team theme: “BET.” According to him: “When people tell you that you can't do something—look them in their eyes—and say 'BET.' There's no better feeling than proving someone wrong.”

Anticipating Week 3’s home game under lights at Maxx Crosby Field fills Reese with excitement: “That's what you play for right there,” he concluded.