The Indianapolis Colts made a stunning move on Tuesday by waiving four-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard, who had been with the team since 2018. The decision came as a surprise to many, as Leonard was one of the best players on the Colts’ defense and a fan favorite.
Leonard’s frustration over the reduced role
Leonard had expressed his frustration over his reduced role in the Colts’ defense this season, as he saw his snaps and production decline. He had only 28 tackles and one interception in nine games, compared to 132 tackles and five interceptions in 14 games last season. He also missed two games due to a hamstring injury.
Leonard had publicly questioned the coaching staff’s decision to limit his playing time, saying that he felt like he was not being utilized to his full potential. He said that he wanted to be on the field more and make an impact on his team.
“I’m not happy with the way things are going right now. I feel like I’m not being used the way I should be. I’m a playmaker, and I want to make plays. I don’t want to sit on the sideline and watch,” Leonard said after the Colts’ loss to the Jaguars in Week 10.
Colts’ rationale for waiving Leonard
The Colts did not give a clear explanation for why they decided to waive Leonard, but they hinted that it was a mutual decision and that they wanted to give him a chance to find a new team. They also praised Leonard for his contributions to the team and wished him well in his future endeavors.
“Shaquille Leonard is a tremendous player and a great person. He has been a key part of our defense and our locker room for the past four years. We appreciate everything he has done for our organization and our community. However, after having several conversations with him and his agent, we felt that it was in the best interest of both parties to part ways at this time. We wish him nothing but the best in his next chapter,” Colts general manager Chris Ballard said in a statement.
Leonard’s reaction and potential landing spots
Leonard took to social media to thank the Colts fans for their support and to express his gratitude for his time in Indianapolis. He also said that he was looking forward to the next opportunity and that he was confident that he would prove himself again.
“I want to thank the Colts organization and the fans for everything. You guys have been amazing and I will always cherish the memories we made together. I’m grateful for the opportunity I had to play for this team and to learn from some of the best coaches and teammates in the league. I’m not done yet, though. I still have a lot of football left in me and I’m ready to show the world what I can do. I’m excited for the next challenge and I can’t wait to see what the future holds,” Leonard wrote on his Instagram account.
Several teams are expected to show interest in signing Leonard, who is still only 26 years old and has a proven track record of being a dominant linebacker. Some of the potential landing spots for Leonard include the Ravens, the Packers, the Chiefs, the Rams, and the Seahawks, who could all use an upgrade at the position and have the cap space to afford him.
