Is Leonard Fournette the next great Jacksonville Jaguars running back?
By Kathy Clark
Jacksonville Jaguars running backs have a storied pedigree and Leonard Fournette may be the next to join Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew as an all-time great.
As I look back over the years of Jacksonville Jaguars football, one thing stands out to me. Two of my all-time favorite players are Fred Taylor and Maurice Jones-Drew.
They made watching the Jags exciting and fun.
The Jaguars have not had a franchise running back since Jones-Drew left the team back in 2013. The time is now for the next great running back to step up for the franchise.
Maurice Jones-Drew and Fred Taylor were special not only to Jaguars fans, but also to the NFL community as a whole. Dan Griffin of Bleacher Report rated MJD as number four and Taylor number three on his list of the best Jags of all time. They both made made many contributions to the record books of the NFL and the Jaguars and are good guys off the field as well.
When drafted, Jones-Drew was described by Robert Davis as explosive and versatile and an ideal kick returner and third down back. He surprised the pundits and became much more. The concern was his small stature and history of injury.
Chris Henry described Taylor as a ” rare package of size, speed, and strength”. Negatives were his history of injuries and lack of receiving capability.
Leonard Fournette, in an article by NFL Fantasy Draft Center was described as a high end talent with speed and power. He was likened to a Bo Jackson-type running back by several draft sites. One downside reported was a history of injuries. Additional potential problems are pass catching, and difficulty separating from defenders.
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Reading through the three draft reports, some key similarities immediately jump out. They each have speed, strength, and power. All played for major colleges and in major conferences. Each of the three was expected to be a successful player and a high draft choice..
There are other positives about Fournette, as well. Jacksonville is close to his home and family so he may avoid some of the rookie problems. He played for LSU and is accustomed to large crowds and big games. Additionally, he is a hard worker with good character.
In conclusion, Fournette already was a great choice and is walking in the footsteps of all-time Jaguars great, possibly hinting at his future inclusion on the lost of the best Jaguars ever in coming years, as well.