Leonard Fournette Injury: Updates on LSU Star's Ankle and Return

LSU Tigers head coach Les Miles revealed Aug. 16 that star running back Leonard Fournette sprained his ankle and was in a walking boot. It's unclear when he will return.

Continue for updates.

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Latest on Fournette's Practice Status

Saturday, Aug. 20

Miles said Fournette should return to the practice field this week, per Ross Dellenger of the Advocate.

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Fournette Comments on Playing Status 

Thursday, Aug. 18

Fournette said he will be ready to play against Wisconsin in the season opener Sept. 3, per Dellenger.

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Miles Comments on Fournette's Injury

Tuesday, Aug. 16

"I don't know," Miles said when asked when Fournette might return, per Dellenger. "I know it's not, in his words...he'll be fine."

Dellenger offered more details:

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Fournette's Absence Would Be Huge Blow to LSU

If Fournette's injury isn't serious, it's excellent news for LSU, which cannot afford to lose the Heisman Trophy hopeful. Fournette, the cornerstone of LSU's offense, is arguably the most dangerous offensive weapon in college football.

Fournette was downright dominant in 2015, rushing 300 times for 1,953 yards and 22 touchdowns. His Heisman hopes last year were stymied by a disappointing showing against Alabama, when he rushed for just 31 yards and a touchdown, but he's a front-runner for the award this season.

LSU has been hit hard by injuries this offseason, as defensive linemen Christian LaCouture and Isaiah Washington are out for the season with knee injuries, while Corey Thompson is out for at least six weeks with a fractured leg, per Dellenger.

Losing Fournette to a significant injury would have been devastating. If he does miss game action, Derrius Guice will step into the starter's role, with Darrel Williams serving as his backup.

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