As Indianapolis Colts All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard works his way back from surgery, one of his training partners gives an update on his current condition.
Last season, three-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard played in just three games— a total of 74 snaps. Even in those limited snaps, it was clear that Leonard was not quite himself, as he was working his way back from a never issue that required back surgery last offseason. Eventually, Leonard was shut down for the year and had another surgery to help him get back to himself.
Since that second surgery in November, Leonard has made a few appearances as he updates everyone on his process. In April, Leonard told the media that he currently felt better than he did at any point last year, but that he still had a ways to go. Since then, there hasn’t been many other updates from Leonard but fans are eager to know when the Colts’ best player and leader will be back on the field.
Recently, everyone that’s hoping to see Leonard return to the field got some good news. On Monday’s episode of Good Morning Football, the table was talking about Anthony Richardson and the Colts. Then, free agent safety, Logan Ryan, shifted the conversation to Shaq Leonard. Making a case that Indy’s success this season will depend on the defense, and getting Leonard back on the field.
Ryan revealed that he trains with Leonard five days a week in Tampa and that Leonard is “healthy and looking great.” He concludes his point by saying fans should be excited about Leonard’s return.
What does QB Anthony Richardson bring to the Colts franchise??@RealLoganRyan is with us all morning! pic.twitter.com/eIrNAuqspw
— Good Morning Football (@gmfb) May 8, 2023
Logan Ryan says Shaq Leonard is ‘healthy and looking great'
Shaquille Leonard being ready to go by Week 1, in his Maniac form, would be tremendous for the Colts. Indianapolis’ defense was solid last season, and Zaire Franklin was tremendous filling in for Leonard, however, Shaq’s presence was still clearly missed.
One of the few things Indianapolis didn’t do well defensively last year was take the ball away. The Colts had just 21 takeaways, which was 19th in the NFL. The absence of Leonard, the Turnover King, had a lot to do with that. In one of the few games Leonard played last season, he recorded an interception. In 2021, when Leonard played 16 games, the Colts forced 33 turnovers, second-most in the NFL.
The Colts are just a different team defensively when a healthy Leonard is on the field— he’s the best linebacker in football. Adding him back this season will make a huge difference.