Jaguars' Coughlin calls out Fournette, Yeldon for 'selfish' behavior
Jacksonville Jaguars executive Tom Coughlin voiced his anger Sunday over a pair of running backs who sat on the bench by themselves while their teammates battled the Houston Texans.
"I am disappointed in the behavior today from T.J. Yeldon and Leonard Fournette," Coughlin said, according to ESPN's Michael DiRocco. "They were disrespectful, selfish and their behavior was unbecoming that of a professional football player."
Fournette was held out of the season finale and Yeldon was active but didn't play. Jacksonville lost 20-3 to conclude a disappointing 5-11 campaign; the Jaguars were in the AFC Championship last year and appeared poised to make a Super Bowl run entering this season.
ICYMI: This is why #Jaguars VP Tom Coughlin released a statement re: Leonard Fournette & T.J. Yeldon's behavior during today's game w/ #Texans. Fournette was held out; Yeldon was active but did not play.
— Mia O'Brien (@MiaOBrienTV) December 30, 2018
(Caption this ⤵️ #DUUUVAL ) pic.twitter.com/hXx509ynrs
Fournette appeared in only eight games this season, missing seven contests due to injury and one because of a suspension for brawling against the Buffalo Bills. He still led Jacksonville in rushing - albeit with only 439 yards and five touchdowns.
He averaged a paltry 3.3 yards per carry and recently admitted to Phillip Heilman of the Florida Times-Union that he isn't in optimal physical shape.
Yeldon rushed for 414 yards and one touchdown in 14 games. He's scheduled to become a free agent in March.