The health of star running back Leonard Fournette is a primary concern for the Jacksonville Jaguars as they prepare for their AFC Championship showdown with the New England Patriots. Fournette has been dealing with an ankle injury as well as recently being in a car accident this week.
Fortunately for the Jaguars, Fournette is expected to be on the practice field which is definitely a good sign, via NFL.com's Ian Rapoport.
#Jaguars RB Leonard Fournette, battling an ankle injury, is expected to participate in practice today, source said. A good sign for his availability on Sunday.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 17, 2018
Unlike the Patriots that thrive offensively through the passing game with Tom Brady under center, the Jaguars get it done on that side of the football with Fournette leading the charge. Although Jacksonville is known for their defense which is arguably the best in the NFL right now, Fournette has also made them a threat on offense as the Pittsburgh Steelers can attest to after last week playoff matchup.
The Buffalo Bills may have had some success containing Fournette in the AFC Wild Card holding the rookie to 57 rushing yards on 21 carries, but the same could not be said for Pittsburgh. The Steelers had no answer for Fournette as he rushed for a game-high 109 yards and three touchdowns on 25 carries.
Without Fournette's production on the ground, the Jaguars likely would be watching the AFC Championship Game from home this weekend. His presence on the field against the Patriots will be crucial to the team's success. Chances of advancing to the Super Bowl for the first time in the team's history will significantly increase if Fournette is healthy and ready to go with participation in practice a great sign for Jacksonville with a few days left before kickoff on Sunday.
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