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Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Leonard Fournette was nearly forced to miss Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks in Germany due to visa issues.
Ian Rapoport and Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported Fournette’s replacement passport was delayed due to inclement weather, calling his status into question. Fournette’s passport did not arrive until Thursday, just prior to the Bucs’ plane leaving for Germany.
The Bucs and Seahawks are set to play the NFL’s first regular-season game in Germany as part of an ongoing global expansion. Commissioner Roger Goodell said the league is hopeful to continue expanding its footprint in Germany.
“In our commitment, we’re going to play the next four years, at least, and with at least four games,” Goodell told reporters. “I wouldn’t be surprised if it expanded beyond that at some point soon.”
Fournette has rushed for 405 yards and two touchdowns while adding 42 receptions for 314 yards and three scores this season.
Needing a win heading into their Week 11 bye, the Bucs will be thankful Fournette was able to make the trip. Seattle enters the weekend as one of the NFL’s worst defenses, which should open up the possibility for a massive game for Fournette.