Leonard Fournette Thanks Fans, Declares for NFL Draft

In a move that should surprise absolutely nobody, Leonard Fournette has announced his intentions to enter the 2017 NFL Draft in this letter to LSU fans:

I sit and reflect, as I pen this letter, on my journey as a Tiger. I think about how you all supported me - even before I made the official announcement that I would attend LSU - and I am forever grateful for your continued support throughout both my high school and college careers. You all have watched me grow from a teenager to a young man and were even there for the birth of my daughter Lyric.

When I decided to attend LSU and major in human resources, I also had hopes of winning a National Championship. Things did not go as I planned, but when I consider the passion and commitment of the LSU fans, coaches and my teammates, I am still very grateful for my experience here.

This has been a very trying season, but I have continued to fight to play to the best of my ability. Each day I study and work and rehab with my coaches, trainers and teammates so that I can return to the field for the bowl game, and help our team bring another victory home.

I am thankful that you all have been there through the good, bad, ups and downs. I am thankful for my coaches who have helped me grow into my full potential. I am thankful for my teammates who have been on the field with me through victories and defeats. I am thankful for Coach O stepping in this season, and I wish him well as he officially takes over as Head Coach of the LSU Football team. I am thankful, so it is bittersweet that I must also say goodbye.

I will be declaring for the 2017 NFL Draft after our bowl game. I make this announcement now so that there will not be speculation and distractions while we prepare. I want everyone to know that I will forever treasure my experience as a Tiger. I will take with me the many valuable lessons that I have learned here, and the love that you have shown me throughout the years. I will forever be an LSU Tiger. Thank you.

Forever LSU and Always BUGANATION,

Leonard Fournette, #7.

It sounds as though Fournette will at least try to be ready for LSU’s bowl game, but given that his ankle has been an issue nearly all season, it would be wise for him to at least consider sitting out the Citrus Bowl. Maybe we’ll get to see that open-field gallop one last time though...