Marcel Reece Released by Raiders: Latest Comments and Reaction

The Oakland Raiders have released fullback Marcel Reece Monday.

General manager Reggie McKenzie provided high praise for the 31-year-old veteran in a statement on the team's official site:

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I want to thank Marcel as a player and as a person for all that he has given to the Oakland Raiders. What he has meant to the organization and to me over the past few years is hard to put into words, but his actions, both on and off the field, speak louder than any words can. This was a tough decision. Not enough can be said about Marcel’s commitment to his teammates and his pride in the Raiders, and we wish him and his family nothing but the best.

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Raiders owner Mark Davis would also issue a statement regarding Reece's release, via Scott Bair of CSN California: 

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Today is a sad day for the Raider family and entire Raider Nation. My father once said that I would have a tough time running this organization because I was too close to the players, and that rings true today. [Marcel] Reese has been a pillar of the organization for nine years and was the glue that held us together during a tough transition after my father’s passing. He helped put us on the upward path we are on today and his leadership will be sorely missed. The motto, ‘Once a Raider, Always a Raider,’ has never been more appropriate. When Marcel finishes his playing career, there will always be a spot for him within the Raider organization. Until then, I wish only the best for Marcel and his entire family.

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Reece had been suspended four games for violating the league policy on performance-enhancing drugs, although he served one of those games at the tail end of last season. He was eligible to return for the team's Week 4 game against the Baltimore Ravens. 

Jamize Olawale has served as the fullback in Reece's absence and will seemingly remain in that role going forward.

The former undrafted free agent had been one of the most productive fullbacks in the NFL, excelling as a runner, receiver and blocker since joining the Raiders in 2009.

In the past six years, the versatile player has tallied 844 rushing yards with three touchdowns as well as 2,015 receiving yards on 205 catches with 12 touchdowns. He went to three Pro Bowls over the last four years and would have gone to his fourth last February if not for his suspension.

Bill Williamson of All22.com noted the surprise that came with the team's decision:

On the other hand, Oakland has fared well without him this season, getting out to a 2-1 start thanks in part to a strong run game. The squad leads the NFL with an average of 5.9 rushing yards per attempt and is second in the league with 148.3 rushing yards per game.

Running backs Latavius Murray, Jalen Richard and DeAndre Washington all have over 100 rushing yards already on the season. Olawale has 41 yards from scrimmage and a touchdown.