Bears ‘Odds On Favorite’ to Land Leonard Fournette

The former Jacksonville Jaguars’ running back was released on Monday.

The free agent running back market just broke wide open. On Monday, the Jacksonville Jaguars released star running back and former fourth overall pick Leonard Fournette. While the news is certainly a headline grabber, it should not come as a surprise. Fournette and the Jaguars’ front office have been at ends for quite some time, with many expecting the running back to leave after next season.

Leonard Fournette draws Tom Coughlin’s ire after Jaguars’ loss to Texans, and now questions abound

Jacksonville is clearly frustrated with behavior, performance of star RB. But the front office should take some of the blame, says @danielrpopper: https://t.co/o2QhCbykm6 pic.twitter.com/r70VodnrlS
— The Athletic Jacksonville (@TheAthleticJAX) December 31, 2018

Enter the Chicago Bears

With uncertainty surrounding starting running back David Montgomery’s status heading into the season, many have expected the Bears to make a move. Ryan Pace has had no shortage of aggressive signings during his tenure as GM. A Fournette signing would be right up his alley. Pace could solidify a position room that’s been hit hard by the Montgomery injury with proven production. Not only does this sound good on paper, but it also looks realistic to the books. According to Brovada, the Bears have the best odds to land the former Pro Bowl back.

Odds for what team Leonard Fournette will play for next (Bovada):

Bears +265
Patriots +285
Buccaneers +350
Washington +375
Texans +900
Seahawks/Falcons +1100
Steelers +1200
— Odds Shark (@OddsShark) August 31, 2020

In three seasons, Fournette has 2,631 rushing yards on 666 attempts with 17 touchdowns. He has also added 134 receptions for 1,009 yards and two touchdowns through the air. If Chicago were to pull the trigger, they would be adding a legitimate three down back. According to Over The Cap, the Bears currently hold just under $18 million in cap space.