Buccaneers: Does Leonard Fournette return to college form with #7?

Buccaneers RB Leonard Fournette could return to #7 in 2021.

As a fan of the Buccaneers, we’ve learned to expect the unexpected. This team has been all about breaking barriers since the group came together under Bruce Arians, and now, the team has the chance to look a little different in 2021 with an expanded number rule. Players like Leonard Fournette can finally return to their college digs.

The rule, which has always been a weird one, will now allow for more flexibility for players in their number choices. There is always plenty of turnover each year on teams with players trying out new looks, but this year could see more change than ever before.

The days of seeing running backs only wearing numbers in the 20-49 range are over. Not that this was ever a significant issue, but getting to see a running back wear a single-digit always had that effect of making them look faster.

Leonard Fournette could be one of the big winners from this change, as it has been several years since he had the opportunity to wear his original number, seven. Seven was never an opportunity for Fournette in the NFL until now.

After losing his NFL number of 27 when arriving in Tampa, Fournette could be in the market for a lower number this next season. During a year where he is trying to earn his next major contract, Fournette will want as much publicity and attention as possible. There could be no better way to do this than with a flashy new number.

The player makes the number, not the other way around, but a move like this could be just the change that Fournette needs to be able to tap into his “playoff mode” during the regular season.

One thing’s for sure: there will be a lot of #7 jerseys in Raymond James Stadium this year if Fournette does decide to take what should be his.

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