Cowboys would be wise to sign three-time All-Pro LB
Although the Dallas Cowboys have one of the best defenses in the NFL, adding a three-time first-team All-Pro certainly wouldn't hurt.
Per ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter, former Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard cleared waivers on Wednesday, allowing him to enter free agency. Schefter added the Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles are expected to have some interest in the 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year.
On Tuesday, Indianapolis waived the 28-year-old. His playing time diminished this season after he missed 14 games with a back injury in 2022. Leonard started nine games for the Colts, playing on 70 percent of defensive snaps, the second-lowest figure of his career. Despite the limited role, he remained productive, logging 65 total tackles.
Dallas owner Jerry Jones recently revealed that the team shut down LB Leighton Vander Esch for the rest of the season. He suffered a neck injury in a Week 5 loss to the San Francisco 49ers and was placed on injured reserve.
The Cowboys have managed without the former Pro Bowler, as they're fifth in the NFL in points allowed (17.5). Markquese Bell made a smooth transition from safety to LB. Through 10 games, Pro Football Focus gave him an 84.5 grade, ninth at the position.
However, the team's lack of LB depth makes it susceptible to the run. It ranks 15th in the league in rushing yards allowed (109.2). The Cowboys can afford to sign Leonard. Per Spotrac, they have the league's sixth-most cap space ($11M). Also, they would only have to sign him to the veteran minimum ($420K).
It makes sense for the Cowboys to add a talented player who could help them make a deep playoff run.
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