Leonard Fournette is proving why he deserves to be one of the best running backs in the NFL
Leonard Fournette (RB), is already having a monstrous season with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Drafted fourth overall, many people assumed that rookie running back Leonard Fournette would have a very prominent role in the young Jaguars offense. What he has already accomplished has surprised many, and he is already beginning to exceed the expectations of many Jaguars fans. Some wanted the franchise to draft a quarterback, some wanted a defensive player, but Leonard Fournette is already proving that he could potentially be one of the best draft picks in franchise history.
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Leonard Fournette went up against one of the NFL’s top defenses, and walked out with 181 rushing yards and two touchdowns against the Pittsburgh Steelers on Sunday. After a career high game, Fournette elevated drastically in rankings.
He’s currently ranked #2 in the NFL in rushing yards with 466 yards all purpose yards, an impressive statistic for a rookie. He’s only behind Kansas City’s Kareem Hunt (609 yards), who is also surprisingly a rookie. Fournette is currently ahead of several of the leagues elite running backs, including; Todd Gurley, Ezekiel Elliot, Melvin Gordon, DeMarco Murray, and LeSean McCoy among many others. Fournette is also tied for first (with Devonta Freeman) in rushing touchdowns, with five.
As for total touchdowns, Fournette comes in second (with six), and is tied with Jordy Nelson and Kareem Hunt, and only behind LA’s Todd Gurley with seven.
Fournette has already faced some of the best defenses so far, and it might even get easier for him as the season moves forward. He still has yet to face several defensively struggling teams, including; Colts (twice) (2-3), Browns (0-5), 49ers (0-5), Texans (2-3), and the Chargers (1-4). Teams like these will be an easy boost to his statistics as long as he stays free from injury.
A pro bowl could certainly be in the near future for Fournette. He’s currently on track for well over a 1,000 yard season and is already beginning to touch franchise records. Best part is, he’s only a rookie.