Is Leonard Fournette the Next AP?

By Djack

Leonard Fournette, is the most highly touted running back to come out of the NFL draft since Adrian Peterson. Since that's the case, Fournette will now face comparisons to AP whether they are fair or not. Can the great LSU running back following in the footsteps of AP's career, possibly passing his legacy, or will he fall far short? These are the types of discussions that are going to take place before Fournette even takes a carry in the NFL. Fair or not, it should be an interesting debate.

Coming out of college everyone knew AP was going to be a` force to be reckon with in the NFL. The kid was so fast, so strong, and so explosive many feared he'd burn himself out after 5 years in the league. AP exceeded any and all expectations on his way to becoming one of the best running backs to ever step foot on the gridiron.

Comparing the two college careers of these phenomenal talents, Fournette is clearly the better back. In a 130 less carries, Fournette had 200 less yards than AP. Since Fournette averaged 6.2 YPC in  college, that means if he had the same amount of carries as AP he would've had around 600 more yards. That's a pretty big margin, especially when you take into account Fournette is playing in the SEC, a way tougher conference than the BIG 12. If college performance means anything than Fournette has the upper hand going into the NFL.

Unfortunately, I don't think the college performance translates whatsoever. Fournette doesn't have the same it factor to him that AP had. AP could do it all, he was faster than you, stronger than you, and was quicker than you, meanwhile Fournette is probably just stronger than you and in the NFL everyone is pretty damn strong. AP's skill set was built for more success in the NFL, I think Fournette will still be a very solid player, although I don't think he'll ever even sniff AP's greatness. Just facts, players like AP come around once in a lifetime, the dude was special. Fournette has all the intangibles to be a great running back in this league, however he doesn't have all the intangibles to be the next Adrian Peterson.