May 18,2017
(Photo Credit: Scott Audette/Tampa Bay Storm)
The Arena Football League is known for
having a high scoring, aerial assault centered product. However, one of
it’s best, offensive weapons currently is an all time great fullback.
Philadelphia Soul fullback Mykel Benson is not a scat back by any means.Standing 6 feet and weighing 280 lbs., Benson describes himself as a “downhill runner with great vision and patience.” The veteran ball carrier feels he is “most definitely” the best fullback in the league, and it’s hard to argue against that. Along with Cleveland Gladiators quarterback Arvell Nelson, Benson is one of two players to eclipse the 100 yard mark on the season. He leads the AFL in rushing touchdowns with eight.
The 29 year old from Florida A&M isn’t a flash in the pan either. He currently sits 7th in AFL history in rushing yards, and 5th in rushing touchdowns. There’s no reason to believe he won’t push past some of the legends in front of him in the next couple years.
With the league being as pass heavy as it is, Benson has found ways to get involved outside of the run game throughout his career. “Every system I have played in hasn’t had a fullback, so I’m used to pass blocking now. It’s fun to me! I get to call football my job, not many people can say that,” breaks down Benson. “I take great pride in blocking. I want people to remember me as the best blocking fullback, that can also hurt teams in the run and screen game.”
This is his first season with the Soul, and he is ready to help them repeat as ArenaBowl champions. He explains “I have to do my job in the passing game protecting Dan (Raudabaugh), and continue to make plays in the screen and run game when my number is called.”
His alma mater, often referred to as FAMU, is more known for its band than its athletics. He said if he were in the band, he would “definitely be on the drums.” The former Rattler also mentioned that every song their famous Marching 100 band played, gave him chills through his body. One thing is for sure, Mykel Benson will continue to march to the beat of his own drum through the Arena Football League’s record books.
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