Ever since former LSU running back Leonard Fournette arrived to the NFL in 2017, he’s been a workhorse for the Jacksonville Jaguars.
If it weren’t for the tremendous amount of success of Tennessee Titans running back Derrick Henry, Fournette could make the claim as the best tailback in the AFC South.
Last season, Fournette rushed for 1,152 yards on 265 carries in 15 games while averaging 4.3 yards per carry and three touchdowns on the season.
While his rushing yards to touchdown ratio wasn’t great, Fournette continues to be the team’s leading rusher.
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His best season overall came during his rookie year in 2017.
He rushed for 1,040 yards on 265 carries in 13 games with nine touchdowns and a 3.9 yards per carry average. His dynamic running out of the backfield helped lead the Jaguars to the AFC Championship that season.
Entering what could likely be his final season with the Jaguars, Fournette has to prove to the coaching staff that he is worthy of being a part of the organization beyond the 2020 season.
The Jaguars declined to pick up Fournett’s fifth-year option over the offseason, and there is a potential for him to be a free agent after the upcoming NFL season.
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Headed into 2020, the Jaguars have Fournette as the starter, with veteran Chris Thompson as the most likely second-string tailback.
While the starting role is locked up, Fournette needs to rush for at least 1,000 yards for the second straight season to have a chance at a return to the team in 2021.
Given the lack of depth behind him at the position, the former LSU Tiger could go from 1,000-1,500 yards in 2020. Looking at a potential total for touchdowns, Fournette could run for 5-10 — perhaps even more depending upon how often offensive coordinator Jay Gruden utilizes Fournette as a running back this year.
After dealing with his share of injury issues in the past, Fournette needs to remain healthy for the majority of the season to achieve these numbers and prove his worth.
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