Kristopher Knox of the Bleacher Report evaluated NFL rosters in his recent report and predicted potential trades for the upcoming offseason.
For the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Knox suggests that Leonard Fournette being traded to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers would make sense for both teams:
“Two years ago, the Jacksonville Jaguars used the fourth overall pick on former LSU running back Leonard Fournette. The hope was that he would have a Todd Gurley-like effect on the offense. However, Fournette has been closer to draft bust Trent Richardson than Gurley or Ezekiel Elliott…
…That is where the Tampa Bay Buccaneers come in. They have a potential draft bust of their own in Ronald Jones, they finished with the fourth-fewest rushing yards (95.2 per game) and they’re picking high in the draft. A high third-round pick might be enough to take a potential headache of Jacksonville’s hands. Adding him to the group of Jones and Peyton Barber would at least give the Buccaneers a functional rushing attack. If Fournette reaches his full potential in Tampa, that would be a bonus.” See article HERE.
While the thought of having a high-caliber running back on the roster does seem tempting, would trading for Fournette really make sense for Tampa Bay?
On the one hand, the former LSU Tiger started off his career well as a rookie in 2017, rushing for 1,040 yards, and has proven without a doubt that he is full of potential.
This year, on the other hand, he regressed mightily, missing time due to an injury and earning a suspension due to a fight. Fournette ran for a mere 439 yards and averaged only 3.3 yards per carry, which is worse than Peyton Barber’s average of 3.7 yards. Granted, the fact that Jacksonville’s offense was a nightmare in general this year naturally caused Fournette’s numbers to drop. However, he does seem to be injury-prone and not very easily coachable.
With Ronald Jones most likely not working out for the Bucs, the front office has to seriously consider upgrading the most overrated position in football. But would Fournette make sense?
Giving up a third-round pick could be worth the risk for the former fourth overall selection. Without a doubt, the reward would certainly be immense if Fournette can stay healthy and keep his head in the game.
What do you think, Bucs fans? Leave a comment.
