Jaguars Fournette Listed as Questionable for Sunday’s Game

Jacksonville Jaguars running back Leonard Fournette is still listed as questionable for Sunday’s home opener against the New England Patriots.

The questions came at Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Marrone on Friday after practice. They all centered around the progress of star running back Leonard Fournette. Would the second-year player be ready to play on Sunday when the Jaguars host the New England Patriots in the team’s first home game of the season?

Judging by Marrone’s response and how Fournette sounded when he met with the media on Thursday, the hope is No. 27 will be in the lineup at the kickoff.

"“He had a good day yesterday. That’s encouraging,” Marrone said. “Today we just wanted to make sure we got a good lift and everything in and get him ready, see how he’s going to be this afternoon when we talk to him and work him out.”"

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Fournette left the game against the New York Giants in the second quarter with a hamstring injury and did not return. T.J. Yeldon got the majority of the carries the remainder of the game. Now, the team and the fans are in a wait-and-see mode. Playing Fournette could become a game-time decision.

When Fournette met with the media for his weekly news conference on Thursday, he said the hamstring in question is getting better and he anticipates being ready to go on Sunday afternoon. The injury was originally believed to be “minor” but has become the hot topic of conversation this week as he has missed time on the practice field adjacent to TIAA Bank Field.

"“Even though I’m not practicing I’m still in film every day in the morning,” Fournette said. “Even when I’m doing therapy I’m going through plays.”"

If the Jaguars do not have Fournette in the lineup, Marrone said the team could play with only two running backs on the roster. Yeldon and Corey Grant would then step up and play a larger role on Sunday. The team also has fullback Tommy Bohanon on the roster.

Marrone said the team would use him as well. Also, Brandon Wilds is on the team’s practice squad if a roster move must be made.

There will be no hesitation in using Fournette, Marrone explained. If he is on the field, he will be part of the team’s rushing and passing attack.

"“If he’s ready to go out there, he’ll be a full go,” he explained."

The plan by the Jaguars is to see Fournette go through pre-game tests to determine if he can go. Like every other player, he will go through the team’s pre-game routine before a decision is made.

"“We’re going to see where he is now, and today was more of just a lifting in the morning, just working on him and we’ll see how he is this afternoon,” Marrone said. “If he’s good this afternoon [Friday}, we’ll test him now. If he’s feeling a little sore, we’ll wait and test him tomorrow or Sunday. We’re just working through it.”"