Leonard Fournette does not have an NFL home, but the free agent could find work in the coming weeks. The Indianapolis Colts recently brought the veteran in for a visit, and while the two sides have yet to come to terms, it shows at least one organization is interested in the former top-five pick and Super Bowl champion. As a vested veteran, teams won’t owe any guaranteed money to Fournette if he signs after Week 1, so don’t be surprised if he’s suiting up for a new team in Week 2.
Of course, that team might not be the Colts. While Indianapolis brought him in for a visit, several teams across the league could use additional reinforcements at the position. While any team could make a move for an experienced player who probably won’t cost more than the league minimum, the Carolina Panthers and Kansas City Chiefs make the most sense as potential destinations.
Chiefs, Panthers Could Steal Free Agent Leonard Fournette From Colts
The Carolina Panthers have their long-term solution at running back in second-round pick Jonathon Brooks. However, the former Longhorn is currently on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list as he recovers from a torn ACL. In the meantime, the Panthers must get by with the underwhelming duo of Chuba Hubbard and Miles Sanders. Hubbard can keep the ship afloat for the time being, but Leonard Fournette could provide some much-needed competition as a free agent.
At this stage in his career, Fournette is nothing more than a short-term fix and an unremarkable depth option. However, even the present-day version of the running back will probably be an upgrade on Miles Sanders. The former Eagle crashed and burned during his first year with the Carolina Panthers, and it’s hard to see him improving in Year 2. Dave Canales loves to run the football, and Leonard Fournette could be the perfect free agent to handle a few carries per game until Brooks is back to full strength.
Replace One First-Round Pick With Another
The Kansas City Chiefs thin backfield took a hit when former first-round pick Clyde Edwards-Helaire landed on the Non-Football Injury list. The LSU product probably would’ve been the fourth option in the backfield, but his absence still leaves a notable hole on this roster. This team could use some more experience, and Leonard Fournette could be the ideal free agent for the job.
Isiah Pacheco is the unquestioned starter in this offense, but the rest of the depth chart leaves something to be desired. Samaje Perine joined the team days ago, and that was only after the running back failed to make Denver’s 53-man roster. Perhaps he can still bring something as a pass-catcher, but he’s closer to the end of his career than the beginning. Undrafted free agent Carson Steele, meanwhile, played well in the preseason but has yet to prove himself in the regular season. Leonard Fournette may have lost a step over the years, but the free agent could provide some much-needed stability to this depth chart.
Main Photo: Sam Navarro – USA Today Sports
