The Tampa Bay Buccaneers may be in the market for a new starting running back. According to NFL Network insider Tom Pelissero, the Bucs plan to part with running back Leonard Fournette by the time the new league year begins on March 15.
Pelissero tweeted, “The Bucs plan to release RB Leonard Fournette when the new league year begins March 15, per sources. GM Jason Licht mentioned recently that he felt Fournette was still a three-down back in this league. “Lombardi Lenny” is still only 28 and has plenty in the tank.”
The #Bucs plan to release RB Leonard Fournette when the new league year begins March 15, per sources.
GM Jason Licht mentioned recently that he felt Fournette was still a three-down back in this league. “Lombardi Lenny” is still only 28 and has plenty in the tank. pic.twitter.com/KMHiGSfG9L
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) February 28, 2023
Fournette, who was very productive the year before, struggled this year much like the rest of the offense. He only rushed for 668 yards and scored three touchdowns, way down from his 2021 numbers. Two seasons ago, he ran for 821 yards and scored eight touchdowns.
In previous years, Fournette has rushed for 1,000 yards. But he has been inconsistent, especially in the last three years when his numbers have gone down. This may be why the team has decided to part ways with him soon.
But his numbers may have gone down due to the fact that the Buccaneers’ offense was based on the success of Tom Brady throwing the football. Now that Brady has retired, it looks as if the Buccaneers may be headed in a different direction. And now, perhaps looking for a more balanced attack.
About Stacey Mickles
Stacey is a 1995 graduate of the University of Alabama who has previously worked for other publications such as Sportskeeda and Saturday Down South.