The Jacksonville Jaguars have been one of the NFL’s biggest topics of discussion after the NFLPA recently singled them out for fining Dante Fowler Jr. (and perhaps others) for not rehabbing at their facility during the offseason. With the team heading towards a rebuild, that’s going to greatly complicate things as Shad Khan and the Jags will have to change the perception of the team gradually over the years.
Despite the recent drama, it appears the Jags have at least one player who isn’t completely miserable in Duval. On Monday’s episode of “Action Sports Jax” on ESPN 690 AM the third-year tailback joined hosts Brent Martineau and Austin Lane in the process of him doing some holiday shopping with the Jacksonville youth at Academy Sports.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=noy4hXA9Jzs&t=7235s
Towards the end of the interview, Martineau brought up the various battles between the NFLPA and Jags as of late and asked whether he thought it was an organizational problem. Fournette responded by saying he’s not sure, but praise coach Doug Marrone’s efforts through it all.
“I don’t know [if it’s an organizational problem],” Fournette said. “As far as the money part, I think it’s kind of extreme sometimes. To see what I seen today [with the grievance situation] was crazy. Individually, I don’t know what happened to cause it, but I’m glad [Fowler] got his money back, or will be getting his money back. Whatever the case may be. I think that Doug is doing an excellent job of trying to communicate with the players and build a better relationship with the players No. 1. That’s all I can speak on is coach Doug.”
Fournette’s comments echo the sentiments we’ve been pushing all along about Marrone distancing himself from personnel executive Tom Coughlin and his stern culture. Seemingly, Marrone’s efforts haven’t gone unnoticed by the players despite how the season has gone.
Afterward, Fournette was asked if he wanted to continue his time with the franchise throughout all of the recent turmoil and his response was one that should definitely put a smile on the face of Jags fans.
“Yeah, most definitely [I want to be here],” Fournette said. “I love it here. The people love me. [Jacksonville] is my second home so I’ve enjoyed every bit of it.”
Much of Fournette’s desire could be because he understands changes are coming. Now, it’s on Khan to get the right people in his front office to steer the organization away from the path they’re currently on.