Jaguars 'going to go forward' with Fournette after failed trade

Jacksonville Jaguars general manager Dave Caldwell expects Leonard Fournette to be a key part of the team's offense in 2020, even though they tried to trade him recently.

The Jaguars have not picked up Fournette's fifth-year option, meaning he will be a free agent after the upcoming campaign, yet Jacksonville had hoped to part ways sooner having shopped the running back around the draft.

However, having failed to find a willing trade partner, Fournette will return to Jacksonville, where he is due to earn $4.1million in guaranteed money next season.

"There were just some minor [trade] discussions with that but nothing substantial throughout the draft or prior to the draft," Caldwell told PFT's podcast.

"I think the mindset is that we're going to go forward with Leonard on the team. I had a good talk with him on Friday. I know coach [Doug] Marrone has had some discussion with him.

"He seems to be in great shape and mental frame of mind, and we feel that he'll have a great season this year."

The test I’m facing God already saw me through........... pic.twitter.com/XFAjnFCSFw
— Leonard Fournette (@_fournette) December 10, 2019

Fournette, the fourth overall pick in the 2017 Draft, rushed for 1,152 yards in 2019 – statistically his best season as a pro – and added another 522 yards on 76 receptions, though he only had three touchdowns.

He may need to clear the air with the Jaguars quarterback Gardner Minshew too, having suggested the team should start free agent Cam Newton.

"I'm sure they'll be on the same page. They're both professional guys, and I'm sure a lot of it was taken out of context from my understanding," Caldwell added.

"Gardner's a tremendous leader and I think Leonard will do his best and put his best foot forward.

"I don't know what's taken place but I'm sure it won't be an issue."

Published 06 May 2020, 13:22 IST