by Kevin Hickey
The Indianapolis Colts parted ways with linebacker Shaquille Leonard on Tuesday and while we initially thought it could have been a mutual decision, it appears it wasn’t at all.
According to multiple reports, Leonard did not request a release from the team, and the Colts simply made this decision as a football move in what they believe is best for the organization moving forward.
Leonard’s disdain for his current role likely played a major part in the decision. Additionally, it has been clear he’s not the same player he was before an injury-riddled 2022 campaign changed the course of his career.
Even when starting MIKE linebacker Zaire Franklin missed a game due to a knee injury, the Colts opted to play second-year undrafted free-agent Segun Olubi over Leonard.
Despite being fully healthy entering the season—and missing a game due to a groin injury—Leonard was on the field for 70% of the defensive snaps in his nine games played. That’s by far the lowest snap share of his career when healthy.
While the memories of Leonard’s All-Pro run for the first four years of his career will be looked upon fondly, the Colts made a business decision in order to get out of a massive contract moving forward.
Originally posted on coltswire.usatoday.com