NFL Draft 2017: Leonard Fournette visits Eagles in Philadelphia

Dalvin Cook isn’t the only top running back prospect visiting the Eagles this week. Philadelphia is also hosting LSU’s Leonard Fournette on a pre-draft visit, according to a report from NFL insider Ian Rapoport. Fournette is one of 30 prospects who will visit the Eagles leading up to the 2017 NFL Draft.

Many believe Fournette to be the best running back in this year’s class. Measuring in at 6-0, 240 pounds, Fournette is a brutally physical runner with the ability to crush defenders in his path.

In three years at LSU, Fournette rushed for 40 touchdowns and 3,830 yards on 616 attempts (6.2 average). He also caught 41 passes for 526 yards and one receiving touchdown.

The Eagles desperately need a new lead running back. One report indicates Philadelphia will “be aggressive” about finding a new rusher. The Eagles might need to be aggressive if they want Fournette because a number of mock drafts have him going off the board in the top 10 before the Eagles’ pick at No. 14.

Personally, I find it hard to believe the Eagles will draft a rusher in the first, but the team is clearly doing their homework on the top rushing prospects. So who knows.

For more on Fournette, check out BGN draft writer Ben Natan’s scouting report.

NFL Comparison: For the sake of recency, Leonard Fournette actually has a lot in common with Bears rookie, Jordan Howard. Howard came into the league as a big bodied, power running back and a mid round pick. However, Howard was outstanding for the Bears this season and was second in the league in rushing this season. I do think Fournette has a higher ceiling due to his better overall speed, but they are similar running backs in terms of style.

Considering the amount of power running the Eagles implement in their offense, I could absolutely see him being a productive player here. His rawness as a pas catcher and lack of well roundedness would probably make the Eagles prefer other backs to him, however, much like I do. Fournette's draft slotting, like many players, is about his fit. While I would be hesitant to spend a high pick on him, a team like New England or Carolina taking him at the back of the first round or early in the second is perfect slotting for the talented running back.

Watch Fournette’s individual game film on Draft Breakdown. Watch his highlights video below (warning: music may be NSFW).

Leonard Fournette spider graph:

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Complete list of known Philadelphia Eagles draft visits

Alabama CB Marlon Humphrey - [Click here]

Washington WR John Ross - [Click here]

Alabama LB Ryan Anderson - [Click here]

Alabama LB Reuben Foster - [Click here]

Florida State RB Dalvin Cook - [Click here]

LSU RB Leonard Fournette