Shaquille Leonard Jenna Watson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Colts make shocking decision with star LB

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 11/21/23

The Indianapolis Colts released three-time Pro Bowl linebacker Shaquille Leonard on Tuesday, ending a six-year relationship.

Leonard played in nine of the first 10 games of the season but was on the field for only 455 defensive snaps (70%), the lowest percentage of his career outside of his injury-riddled 2022 campaign. Leonard played just three games last year due to a back injury.

Healthy this fall, the 2018 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year recently was looking for answers regarding his lack of playing time.

Indy, I thank you pic.twitter.com/VxMa1VU2IA
— Darius Shaquille Leonard (@dsleon45) November 21, 2023

The transaction surprised scores of NFL media members.

What is happening?! https://t.co/mf2B1CGiBE
— Ryan Talbot (@RyanTalbotBills) November 21, 2023

The #Colts have released Darius Leonard. Unreal. He heads to waivers. https://t.co/DCnBlc4wek
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 21, 2023\

Colts owner Jim Irsay confirmed the move on X, formerly known as Twitter, and said that the NFL was a "tough business."

General manager Chris Ballard and head coach Shane Steichen also commented on the move.

Statements from #Colts GM Chris Ballard and HC Shane Steichen on four-time All-Pro LB Shaq Leonard, who was waived moments ago.

Ballard: “We wish him the best and he will always be a valued member of the Horseshoe."

Steichen: “I'm thankful for the energy Shaq brought … “ pic.twitter.com/znRtu3bY4u
— James Boyd (@RomeovilleKid) November 21, 2023

Leonard was selected by Indianapolis in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft and made three straight Pro Bowls with the club from 2019-2021. Leonard also made First-Team All-Pro as a rookie and in 2020 and 2021 as well.

The 28-year-old led the league in forced fumbles (eight) in 2021. He posted 65 combined tackles, including a pair of tackles for loss, this season.

Leonard ends his Colts career with 32 tackles for loss, 20 quarterback hits, 17 forced fumbles, 15 sacks and 12 interceptions across 70 regular-season games.

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