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Buccaneers intend to deliver RB Leonard
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Leonard Fournette, the veteran running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, will become a free agent this offseason.
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According to NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero, the Buccaneers plan to release Fournette when the new league year begins on March 15.
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Although Fournette has $2 million left on his contract, that amount is fully guaranteed,
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and another $2 million would have become fully guaranteed on March 19.
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The Buccaneers' decision to release him will allow them to spread the cap hit.
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Fournette signed a three-year deal with the Buccaneers last year after exploring free agency.
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Despite a down year in 2022, which was mirrored by most of Tampa's offense,
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Bucs general manager Jason Licht has expressed his belief that Fournette is "still a three-down back in this league."
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In 2022, Fournette gained 689 rushing yards off 189 attempts, averaging 3.5 yards per carry, and scored three touchdowns in nine starts.
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However, he found more success through the air, catching 73 balls for 523 yards and three touchdowns in his sixth NFL season.
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At only 28 years old, Fournette is still considered a viable option on a contending team in 2023.
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His release from the Buccaneers opens up new opportunities for him
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and gives other teams the chance to sign a skilled running back with a proven track record.
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Only time will tell where Fournette will end up next,
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but his talent and experience are sure to attract a lot of attention in the upcoming free-agent market.