Alabama A&M Notebook: Leichtfuss making strides at TE

Photo: Todd Leichtfuss, Soph., 6-1/200, Ventura, CA St. Bonaventure HS

Reggie Benson, Huntsville Times

Tight ends Charles Moody and John Smith are All-Southwestern Athletic Conference performers. Moody is a two-time All-SWAC selection and was named to the preseason team last month. Smith has that kind of ability, too.

But Alabama A&M isn't blessed with just two quality tight ends. After two weeks of practice, Todd Leichtfuss' name will have to added to the list.

Leichtfuss, who doubles as the Bulldogs' longsnapper on punts, field goals and extra points, has improved immensely since last spring.

"He's picking up the offense and making good strides," tight ends coach Andy Fuller said. "His blocking and pass routes are getting better. He made a good catch (in Tuesday's scrimmage) and fumbled, but that's something we can correct.

"We've got three good tight ends and Todd is right there in the mix, but we have to be careful because he's our long snapper. He wants to get in there and play and he's making plays in camp."

Former Bob Jones standout Jeremy Cunningham, a transfer from Mississippi State, is also in the mix. However, it has taken Cunningham a little longer to grasp the system.

"He's coming along," Fuller said. "It's a transition for him. He's got to stay in the playbook. We've got to spend a little more time with him and learn the offense.

"Jeremy is adjusting, but he's got to pick it up a little bit so he can get in the rotation because we need him to help at tight end or on special teams."

Two-a-days finished: Friday was A&M's last day of two-a-days before the Bulldogs start classes Monday and Jones said they backed off due to today's scrimmage.

"We tried to get a little work done, but guys' legs were starting to feel like lead and we didn't want to kill them before the scrimmage," he said.

The Bulldogs practiced in full pads during Friday's morning session and worked in shoulder pads and shorts during the evening session.

Fan Day today: A&M fans can meet all of the fall sports teams today at Fan Day. The football, volleyball, soccer and cross country teams will be at Louis Crews Stadium beginning at 3 p.m. The New Student Orientation Committee will host a pep rally at 3:30. The A&M football team will scrimmage at 6 p.m. Fans interested in tailgating will be permitted to bring their grills and accessories.