Written by junior running back Leonard Fournette
I sit and reflect, as I pen this letter, on my journey as a Tiger. I think about how you all supported me – even before I made the official announcement that I would attend LSU – and I am forever grateful for your continued support throughout both my high school and college careers. You all have watched me grow from a teenager to a young man and were even there for the birth of my daughter Lyric.
When I decided to attend LSU and major in human resources, I also had hopes of winning a National Championship. Things did not go as I planned, but when I consider the passion and commitment of the LSU fans, coaches and my teammates, I am still very grateful for my experience here.
This has been a very trying season, but I have continued to fight to play to the best of my ability. Each day I study and work and rehab with my coaches, trainers and teammates so that I can return to the field for the bowl game, and help our team bring another victory home.
I am thankful that you all have been there through the good, bad, ups and downs. I am thankful for my coaches who have helped me grow into my full potential. I am thankful for my teammates who have been on the field with me through victories and defeats. I am thankful for Coach O stepping in this season, and I wish him well as he officially takes over as Head Coach of the LSU Football team. I am thankful for the entire football staff and support group. I am thankful, so it is bittersweet that I must also say goodbye.
I will be declaring for the 2017 NFL Draft after our bowl game. I make this announcement now so that there will not be speculation and distractions while we prepare. I want everyone to know that I will forever treasure my experience as a Tiger. I will take with me the many valuable lessons that I have learned here, and the love that you have shown me throughout the years. I will forever be an LSU Tiger. Thank you.
Forever LSU and Always BUGANATION,
Leonard Fournette, #7.
Forever LSU, Forever Buganation pic.twitter.com/sdkN0JaonF
— 7⃣ Leonard Fournette (@_fournette) December 5, 2016