In a recent podcast interview with fellow LSU Tigers legend Shaquille O’Neal, Leonard Fournette delivered a brutal quote about Alabama.
Fournette, a current NFL free agent running back, had quite a massive career with the LSU Tigers football team in college. Fournette recorded 1953 yards, 22 rushing touchdowns, and 253 yards receiving as a sophomore for LSU. The running back considered sitting out his junior season before entering the NFL Draft, but eventually returned and played in seven games.
During the podcast, Fournette spoke about his collegiate recruitment and went into specifics about his time with Alabama. The Crimson Tide were heavily interested in Fournette, and were considered a possible team for quite some time to land the running back. Towards the end of his recruitment, it became a two horse race between Alabama and LSU to land the top-ranked recruit.
However, Fournette revealed the recruitment ended early after the talented running back visited the Alabama program and attended a game. Following his experiences, Fournette made up his mind and ultimately would commit to the LSU Tigers shortly after.
Former LSU Tigers Star Leonard Fournette Criticizes Alabama Crimson Tide Environment
When talking about the visit, Fournette stated that “s— was weak” when referring to the atmosphere and environment.
The running back stated that when he visited the LSU Tigers, “Every time I came to the game, everyone was telling I need to come here” which was a big part of his decision. Fournette felt love from the members of the LSU Tigers football staff and community before becoming a member of the program.
“I loved it here (LSU).I took a visit to Alabama, sh*t was weak. I had a daughter at the time, so I decided to stay home.”
-Leonard Fournette on choosing LSU 🐯
Via- The Big Podcast With Shaq pic.twitter.com/3TFxI8MAc3
— Boot Krewe Media (@BootKreweMedia) October 17, 2024
The former five-star running recruit was considered the top-overall prospect in the 2014 recruiting class. Fournette ultimately chose the LSU Tigers over the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn Tigers following his visits. Fournette also stated that his daughter played a role in his decision as well, which is ultimately why he opted to stay close to home.
Fournette joined the second-ranked recruiting class overall in the 2014 recruiting cycle alongside other top talent. Wide receiver Malachi Dupre, linebacker Clifton Garrett, safety Jamal Adams, and defensive end Davon Godchaux were also members of the class. Will Clapp, DJ Chark, and Russel Gage were all members of the class and ultimately made it to the NFL.
Despite some Alabama Crimson Tide fans feeling burned by Fournette at the time, the running back went on to have quite the impressive collegiate career. While the success was great for Fournette, the Crimson Tide still had his number, and notably were the team that shutdown the running back the most.
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