The Indianapolis Colts reported for training camp on Tuesday, July 26, and there have already been some interesting developments.
After what seemed like a really long and eventful offseason, the Indianapolis Colts and the rest of the league are finally back for training camp. Indy reported on Tuesday and will hold their first open practice on Wednesday, July 27.
During report day, several people from the organization spoke with the media. That includes offensive and defensive players and general manager, Chris Ballard. With that many people talking after being away for a while, there were certainly some noteworthy takeaways.
Here are 4 of the biggest takeaways from report day of the Colts training camp.
4. Shaquille Leonard, not Darius
One of the biggest stories from day one was about Indy’s Pro Bowl linebacker. Referred to as Darius Leonard since entering the NFL, Leonard confessed that he prefers to be called Shaquille, his middle name, and the name that his friends and family have called him all of his life.
Leonard admitted that he was only called Darius in school or when he was in trouble and that the only reason he didn’t say anything as a rookie when the league started referring to him as Darius is that he was a first-year player that didn’t want to necessarily cause a scene for something besides his play.
However, he has now told everyone that he prefers Shaquille so it’s important to respect Leonard’s wishes and move on from Darius. From here on, Leonard should only be referred to as Shaquille, Shaq, or of course, The Maniac.