Probably to fill the Designated Marksman role - several guys in each unit are such. They currently carry the M14 EBR,,,yes the M14 which also shoots the 7.62x51 and 800 yards is the expected maximum range. These are not the Sniper-sniper rifles, like the .50 cals which reach out to 1500 yard +. Designated Marksmen are small s snipers who are good but did not go through the extensive training the Snipers went through. The military saw the need for such and it has been effective.
You can own the M14…albeit in a civilian version (semi auto only):
https://www.springfield-armory.com/products/m1a-scout-squad/
Put it on your bucket list as it is expensive ($1300 - $2000 depending on where you buy it.) The DM's M14EBR is this with a match barrel, an Sage (or archangel) stock and a suppressor.