5 Running Backs Who Drastically Outperformed Their Teammates in 2018
Leonard Fournette, Jacksonville Jaguars
In theory, saying that 2017's fourth overall pick was better than his teammates should get you a, "No poo, Sherlock," in return.
But with how much Leonard Fournette struggled in 2018 and the discourse around him this offseason, it's at least noteworthy.
Compared to a league-average rusher, Fournette was pretty terrible. He averaged -0.07 Rushing NEP per carry with just a 38.5% Success Rate. The league averages in those two metrics were 0.00 and 41.2%, respectively. But again, context matters.
Few teams in the NFL had more injuries along the offensive line this year than the Jacksonville Jaguars. They lost their starting left tackle in Week 2, their backup left tackle in Week 5, and two solid interior linemen in Andrew Norwell and Brandon Linder by Week 13. Their Week 15 offensive line included only one player -- right guard A.J. Cann -- who started in Week 1.
Because of this, every Jaguars running back had putrid metrics. And most of them were much worse than Fournette.
| In 2018 | Rushes | Rushing NEP per Carry | Success Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Leonard Fournette | 130 | -0.07 | 38.5% |
| Other Jags RBs | 230 | -0.14 | 28.7% |
This certainly wasn't a great year for Fournette, but once you account for all the injuries around him, you can start to see why this disaster occurred.
The Jaguars -- you would assume -- should be looking to upgrade their quarterback situation this year, whether it be via the draft or free agency. They'll get Linder, Norwell, and left tackle Cam Robinson back from injury, in addition to wide receiver Marqise Lee. There's a real scenario in which this offense takes a step forward in 2019, even if it'll still be a below-average unit
If that does happen, Fournette's fantasy stock should rebound in a hurry. We've seen glimpses of his potential before as the team tried to get him work in the passing game to start the season. Pair that with an offseason to get healthy and some changes on offense, and we should be looking to buy low on Fournette where we can.
