Leonard Fournette Fantasy

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could be forced to cut veteran running back Leonard Fournette this offseason, as they are currently $55 million over the projected 2023 salary cap of $225 million, which will require some maneuvering before they can re-sign any of their 24 impending unrestricted free agents. Along with Fournette, left tackle Donovan Smith, kicker Ryan Succop and tight end Cameron Brate could be in danger of being cut as well. A Fournette cut would save $3.5 million. He's been the team's leading rusher, but Tampa was dead-last in the league in rushing yards per game in 2022 and yards per carry. The 28-year-old averaged just 3.5 yards per carry while losing valuable touches to more explosive rookie Rachaad White. Fournette could bounce back with a change of scenery in 2023, but we wouldn't bet on it.

Jan. 25th • 12:03 PM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Leonard Fournette rushed just five times for 11 yards and caught one pass for six yards in the 31-14 loss to the Dallas Cowboys in the Wild Card Round. Fournette finished his 2022 campaign with just 668 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, but he did catch 73 passes for 523 yards and three receiving touchdowns. Fournette is under contract for one more season in Tampa Bay, but Tom Brady could be leaving, and Rachaad White could become the featured back after an inefficient age-27 season for Fournette. It'll be interesting to see what Fournette's value is for 2023 fantasy drafts when the offseason plays out.

Jan. 17th • 10:29 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Leonard Fournette finished the regular season with 668 rushing yards and three touchdowns while adding 73 receptions for 523 yards and three receiving touchdowns. He split much of the backfield time with teammate Rachaad White which compromised his fantasy appeal, and that is likely to continue in the playoffs. However, the man given the nickname "Playoff Lenny", was given it for a reason. The veteran shows up when it matters, and this Monday night, the Buccaneers face the Cowboys in the wild-card round. Tampa Bay will likely rely on Fournette, particularly in the passing game, raising his fantasy value. Don't expect a huge game on the ground from the 27-year-old, but he could have a field day through the air. He is a solid option for the team's first playoff matchup against Dallas.

Jan. 12th • 9:15 PM