South Carolina State Legend, Shaq Leonard Waived By Colts

South Carolina State legend Shaquille Leonard was waived by the Indianapolis Colts.

Kyle T. Mosley|

South Carolina State Legend, Shaq Leonard Waived By Colts

On Tuesday, the Indianapolis Colts released the South Carolina State legend and four-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard. The veteran linebacker played in three games last season due to injuries - a concussion and back injury - and struggled this season. Although Leonard recorded 65 tackles, he hasn't been that defensive "Maniac" as he once was on the gridiron.

"These past six years have been incredible! Through the good times and the bad times, y'all stood by my side," Leonard said in a letter to Indianapolis fans. "I apologize for not bringing that trophy back to the 317. The energy at Lucas Oil has been nothing but amazing, and I thank you for every memory."

Indy, I thank you 💜 pic.twitter.com/VxMa1VU2IA
— Darius Shaquille Leonard (@dsleon45) November 21, 2023

The Colts selected him out of the South Carolina State Bulldogs as the 36th overall pick in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. Straight out of Buddy Pough's football program, he won the 2018 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year award with 163 tackles. He earned four AP All-Pro team honors and voted three times to the Pro Bowl.

"Colts nation will always remember The Maniac's palpable energy on the field with each tackle, interception, punchout, and fumble recovery," owner Jim Irsay said in a statement. "We're thankful for Shaq and the contributions he made to our organization."

The Indianapolis team signed Leonard to a contract extension worth $99.25 million over five years in 2021. Despite his release, the team will still be responsible for Leonard's salary in the future if he clears waivers. Leonard is due to receive $54.6 million over the next three seasons.

Published Nov 21, 2023

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