When Shaquille Leonard announced that his annual turkey giveaway would take place on Tuesday, November 21, on the west side of Indianapolis, he had no idea that he would be waived by the Indianapolis Colts a few hours before the event started. However, that’s exactly what happened. Tuesday afternoon, the Colts decided to move on from the four-time All-Pro linebacker, placing him on waivers.
Still, like Leonard has done countless times before since coming to the city in 2018, he showed up for Indianapolis. Leonard showed up with several of his former teammates, taking time to hand out turkeys and other items to the community. He even took the time to speak with local reporters, talking through his feelings and detailing his exit with the colts.
When asked if he was surprised to be waived by Indianapolis, he explained that is was the biggest surprise ever, then detailed exactly how things went down. The linebacker said that he had been asking the staff for a November meeting and that on Monday, after the team took photos, defensive coordinator Gus Bradley pulled him to the side to let him know it was time to have that meeting.
In the meeting, Bradley told Leonard that he would be listed as inactive this week, however, there was no discussion about Leonard being released. He learned that would happened on Tuesday, shortly before the rest of the world did. Leonard made sure to let everyone know that he wishes things went differently.
Shaq Leonard said Gus Bradley told him Monday after team pictures he would be inactive.
— Kevin Bowen (@KBowen1070) November 21, 2023
Then got word today of his release. pic.twitter.com/8dcWMajsdE
Shaq Leonard wishes things ended differently with the Colts
Leonard emphasized that he gave a lot to the team, the organization, and the community. For that reason, Leonard believes he should have been able to see things through, ending the season with the Colts. Even if that meant he need to take a backseat role, he was willing to do that. That not happening is what hurts Leonard the most and he’s left feeling like he left his teammates out to dry.
The six-year veteran, and five-time captain, explained that he takes being a leader in the locker room seriously. Being there for his teammates is important to him and he’s hurt by the fact that he can’t be in their corner for the final seven regular season games. Leonard did let his former teammates know that they can call on him at anytime and he’ll still be there for him, regardless of what team he’s on.
The biggest question now is what team will Leonard play for. He did express that he hasn’t considered retirement, so it’s all about finding a new team. While Leonard is currently on waivers, he’s unlikely to be claimed because of his massive contract. However, there will definitely be teams interested in him once he’s officially a free agent.