(Indianapolis) The Indianapolis Colts unexpectedly released star linebacker Shaquille Leonard on Tuesday after they put themselves back in the NFL playoff race.
The decision to cut ties with Leonard, the Associated Press’ 2018 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, came shortly after Leonard publicly complained about his declining playing time.
The Colts (5-5) were trying to gradually reintegrate their star linebacker after he had two back surgeries to resolve a problem with his nervous system.
The Colts did not hold a media availability Tuesday, usually an off day. They had a bye week last week, after beating the New England Patriots in Germany to return to .500.
Leonard was known for two things on the court – his ability to get to his opponents, and his ability to create turnovers.
However, his talents were limited significantly in 2021 and 2022, after he played only three games due to numerous injuries.
Leonard played in 70 games, 68 as a starter, and recorded 614 tackles in six and a half seasons in the NFL. He had 32 tackles for turnovers, 15 sacks, knocked down 31 passes, recorded 12 interceptions, forced 17 fumbles and recovered seven.
He has totaled 65 tackles in nine games this season, without having a sack, interception, forced fumble or fumble recovery.