Wednesday wasn't the first time the New England Patriots have expressed interest in free agent running back Leonard Fournette. 

After the 2021 season, Fournette was exploring free agency and the Patriots were a potential landing spot for the veteran back. 

However, former New England quarterback Tom Brady refused to let that happen. 

Despite having initially retired following the 2021 season, Brady came out of retirement and wanted to bring back a main part of the Buccaneers offense. 

“When he signed back, he called me and was like. ‘Man, what’s your a– doing up there?’” Fournette said in a press conference last year. “So, he signed back and it was a no-brainer. You know, why wouldn’t I go back?”

Just a day after visiting with the Patriots prior to the 2022 season, he signed a three-year, $21 million contract with Tampa Bay. However, Fournette was release in March 2023. 

Fournette claimed he was "just shopping around" during his free agent visit with the Patriots, finding the spot that "best fits me." 

And he decided the best fit was with the Buccaneers. 

Fournette began his career with the Jacksonville Jaguars, being drafted in the first round (4th overall pick) in the 2017 NFL Draft, but after three seasons, he moved further down the state. 

And it was no secret why Brady wanted the running back to return to the Buccaneers for his final season, recording 1,132 carries for 4,478 yards and 34 touchdowns across his six years in the league. Fournette has had two 1,000+ yard seasons, including during his rookie season. 

He would be a welcome addition to the Patriots, adding another experienced running back to assist Rhamondre Stevenson. 

And this time Tom Brady isn't standing in his way. 

Patriots are working out Super Bowl winning running back

The Patriots looking to add more depth on offense.

Featured Image via Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports