INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. — The Indianapolis Colts announced on Wednesday that former All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard will retire as a member of the team this Sunday at halftime of the team's game against the Las Vegas Raiders.
The Colts drafted Leonard in the second round with the 36th overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. He caught on immediately, winning the NFL's Defensive Rookie of the Year on his way to three Pro Bowls and four All-Pro selections (three First-Team) in his first four seasons.
"In franchise history, Leonard ranks fifth in tackles, sixth in solo tackles, tied for seventh in tackles for loss, third in forced fumbles and second in 10-tackle games (27)," according to a Colts press release.
In 75 career games (70 with the Colts), Leonard totaled 637 tackles (34 for loss), 16.0 sacks, 21 quarterback hits, 17 forced fumbles, seven fumble recovered, 12 interceptions, 31 pass breakups, and one defensive touchdown.
After the incredible beginning to his career, Leonard signed a mega contract extension in 2021 worth $98.5 million over five years. However, we would later find that his best days were behind him after a debilitating back issue began his decline.
Leonard underwent surgery for the issue during the 2022 offseason and wasn't able to debut until Week 4 of the season, but suffered a concussion in the game and was out again until Week 8. He played his last game of the season in Week 9 before he was placed on season-ending Injured Reserve afterward.
In 2023, Leonard was said to be recovered from his injuries, but was being used in a more limited role than normal. He was ultimately cut after Week 10 when his role was going to be diminished even further.
Leonard went on to play the rest of the season with the Philadelphia Eagles, but not again after the season concluded.
Jake Arthur has been covering the Indianapolis Colts for over a dozen years and is a member of the PFWA. He's one half of the Locked On Colts podcast and has worked for the Colts' official website, On SI, and more. You can follow him on X @JakeArthurNFL.
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