Colts release LB Shaq Leonard in surprise move

"Colts Nation will always remember The Maniac's palpable energy on the field with each tackle, interception, punchout, and fumble recovery," Colts Owner and CEO Jim Irsay said. "Off the field, he's a servant leader and assisted numerous families in both his hometown and the Indianapolis community. We're thankful for Shaq and the contributions he made to our organization. We wish him and his beautiful family the best moving forward."

Leonard, the three-time first-team AP All-Pro, three-time Pro Bowler and 2018 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year, underwent a pair of procedures in 2022 to address a nerve issue during and only appeared in three games last season. He returned for 2023 and started nine of the Colts' 10 games, but was limited to primarily playing on first and second downs.

Leonard was drafted by the Colts in 2018 and has never played for another team. In five-plus seasons with Indy, he's racked up a healthy list of accolades. He's a four-time Pro Bowler and a three-time first-team All-Pro. He led the league in tackles in 2018 and was named the defensive Rookie of the Year. Three years later he led the NFL in forced fumbles.

But 2022 was a tough year for him. He didn't make his debut until Week 4 due to offseason back surgery, then sustained a concussion and a broken nose. Another back injury ended his season after just one start and three total games. Shane Steichen took over head coaching duties in the offseason, which led to less playing time for Leonard in 2023.

he team had long been mulling how to proceed with Shaq Leonard . Last week, when asked about the next steps, one team source told ESPN: "We will do what is best for the team at the end of the day."

In reality, the idea of Leonard standing on the sideline, inactive, for the rest of the season was difficult to envision. Whether the Colts questioned Leonard's ability to handle the demotion remains unclear, but even Leonard admits his strong personality could be hard to handle.

"Everybody doesn't understand my drive," he said. "Everybody doesn't understand how competitive I am. ... It's cool. There's no hard feelings."

In 2023, Leonard still didn't look like his former All-Pro self, missing tackles and seeming a step out of position at times. His playing time dwindled under the new coaching staff. Earlier this month, Leonard became frustrated with his usage.

"They say I don't make enough splash plays, so I guess I'll still be watching for a bit," he said at the time.

Now Leonard will have a chance to prove the Colts wrong.

With about $6.1 million in base salary for the balance of this season and $6.5 million guaranteed for injury in 2024, it's unlikely a team will claim Leonard -- and his contract -- off waivers. If he clears, the linebacker will be a free agent.

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Sarah H

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