Leonard Fournette released: Why are Buccaneers releasing star RB in 2023?

The Tampa Buccaneers have released RB Leonard Fournette as the team looks to rebuild for the future. The transcation will become official on March 15 once the new league year begins.

Fournette signed with the Bucs on September 6, 2020, shortly after being cut by the Jacksonville Jaguars.

Fournette spent the last three seasons in Tampa Bay and became a Super Bowl champion in his first season with the team.

He had his best season with the team in 2021 as he recorded 812 rushing yards, eight touchdowns, 454 receiving yards, and two touchdowns.

At age 28, Fournette still has a lot to offer. He has 4,272 rushing yards, 34 touchdowns, 2,011 receiving yards, and seven touchdowns in his six-year career.

Who will carry the load at running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023?

Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Arizona Cardinals

With the departure of Leonard Fournette, the Bucs will have second-year running back Rachaad White and Ke'Shawn Vaughn under contract heading into the season.

White will be in his second year in the league, as he was drafted in the third-round of the 2022 NFL draft.

During his rookie campaign, he was the backup to Fournette and recorded 481 rushing yards, one touchdown, 50 receptions, 290 yards, and two touchdowns.

He will likely be a feature back for the Bucs heading into the 2023 season unles they draft a back or sign a veteran in free agency.

Vaughn was a third-round round pick in 2020 but has seen minimal action. He's recorded 316 rushing yards, two touchdowns, 71 receptions, and one touchdown in his career.

Regardless of what the Bucs do in the off-season, both Vaugh and White should expect an increased role in 2023.

Leonard Fournette