This Lions-Jaguars Leonard Fournette Trade Could Actually Work

After months of speculation, ESPN insider Adam Schefter confirmed that the Jacksonville Jaguars have entered trade talks regarding running back Leonard Fournette. With the NFL Draft scheduled for next week this is definitely a storyline to keep tabs on as progress could surface rather quickly.

It's unclear what teams the Jaguars have held discussions with, but we'd be surprised if the Detroit Lions weren't on the list of potential buyers.

Fournette is entering the final year of his rookie contract in 2020, where he will earn $4.16 million. It goes without saying that the 25-year-old star deserves a significant raise, but this offseason has proved that Jacksonville is blowing up its roster. In other words, we'd be stunned if he was a Jaguar come next season.

Following an injury-riddled sophomore year, Fournette bounced back with a tremendous 2019 season during which he totaled 1,152 yards on 4.2 yards per carry. He added 76 receptions for 522 yards.

As impressive as those stats are, they don't diminish the unfavorable market for running backs. Therefore, the Lions could be able to get away with a third-round pick here. If Jacksonville declines, Detroit could throw in a sixth-rounder for good measure. That package should definitely satisfy the Jags.

The Jaguars are doing everything possible to obtain as much draft capital as possible, and this trade would boost that campaign. The Lions, on the other hand, would add some much needed stability in their backfield, which will only benefit veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford.