LSU Tigers

LSU running back Leonard Fournette: 'Football saved my life'

Published Dec. 22, 2015 9:35 p.m. ET

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For an athlete, any sport could act as a reprieve from the environment in which they grew up in. In many instances, the said sport is akin to a galvanizing force -- pushing the competitor down a path rooted in positivity as opposed to strife and sorrow.

LSU running back Leonard Fournette could've easily fallen through the proverbial cracks. Uprooted and displaced from his home due to Hurricane Katrina, Fournette ultimately returned to New Orleans -- becoming one of the most prolific high school athletes the state of Louisiana has ever seen.

Not only that, but the soon-to-be junior broke numerous LSU school records in 2015 due to his rushing exploits.

@MartySmithESPN I could of been a drug dealer or killer but playing football stopped me from being that
— 7⃣ (@_fournette) December 22, 2015

He took to Twitter on Tuesday to express a sentiment on just how important the sport of football is to his life. Fournette should be viewed as a role model for any young man or woman growing up in a similar circumstance. He was able to find a positive activity, which in turn has led to him enjoying considerable success.