Two prominent NFC teams are reportedly eyeing former Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard, as per ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Two NFC powerhouses are reportedly setting their sights on former Indianapolis Colts standout linebacker Shaquille Leonard.
In an unexpected move on Tuesday, the Colts parted ways with Leonard, releasing him into free agency. Despite his dip in form and the fact that he wasn't performing at his peak, Leonard's release came as a shock, especially since the Colts, with a balanced 5-5 record, are still contenders for a spot in the playoffs and could benefit from his seasoned leadership.
ESPN's insider Adam Schefter reports that after clearing waivers, Leonard is now free to sign with any team. Schefter notes that the league-leading Philadelphia Eagles, along with the formidable Dallas Cowboys, are anticipated to show interest in the 28-year-old linebacker.
Given Leonard's desire to play for a competitive team, the Eagles, with their impressive 9-1 record, and the Cowboys, with a strong 7-3 standing, are viable destinations. While Philadelphia's linebacker corps is among the elite, Dallas could potentially offer Leonard a starting position, especially in light of Leighton Vander Esch's season-ending neck injury.
Leonard, a second-round selection from South Carolina State in the 2018 NFL Draft, quickly made his mark by claiming the Defensive Rookie of the Year title and was instrumental in the Colts' unexpected playoff run. In his debut season, he led the league with 163 tackles and contributed two interceptions, eight defended passes, four forced fumbles, and seven sacks.
Having spent much of 2022 recovering from back surgery, Leonard has not seen much playtime this season. However, teams have not forgotten his caliber, evidenced by his Pro Bowl and All-Pro nods just two years ago. The market for a versatile and industrious linebacker like Leonard is expected to be competitive.
| POLL | ||
23 NOVEMBRE | 22 ANSWERS Two prominent NFC teams are reportedly eyeing former Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard, as per ESPN's Adam Schefter. Should the Cowboys sign Shaq Leonard? | ||
| yes | 13 | 59.1 % |
| no | 9 | 40.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
