It’s hard to believe a running back at 240 pounds is as fast and fluid as Leonard Fournette. The star from LSU came to the NFL Combine and ran 4.51 40-yard dash. At his NFL Pro Day, Fournette did not run, but he did show scouts in attendance his pass catching ability, strengthening his case to be the first running back off the board in the first round and potentially a top-five pick. Dropping 12 pounds didn’t hurt him either in the eyes of all those who watched him on the practice field.
[DavidL]
Fournette has a storied football career that dates back to high school before he chose Baton Rouge. Now, with the NFL in his sights, he appears to be the best running back to come out of college since Adrian Peterson.
In this player profile, we will look at the strengths and weaknesses of Leonard Fournette as he moves on to the next level. We also include a few teams that will be licking their chops to take such a gifted running back.
Strengths
Size and speed. Leonard Fournette is a big back with size to run over defenders and speed to burst through the defensive line. He helped himself at his Pro Day by catching passes out of the backfield.
Fournette is a playmaker who is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He is able to accelerate once he gets past the first line of defense. His strengths outweigh his weaknesses.
[Sean2]
Weaknesses
There are some injury concerns. There is also some concern he may put on weight which could slow him down. Also, the ankle injury he suffered last season has some teams worrying about his durability. Can he take a hit and continue the play?
Perspective Teams:
Jacksonville (4th overall), New York Jets (6th overall), Carolina Panthers (8th overall). I stop there since there is no chance Leonard Fournette gets out of the Top 10.