Chris Ballard Pumps Brakes on Shaq Leonard's Return
There's a sense of déjà vu as the Indianapolis Colts open training camp this week. Like last year, star linebacker Shaq Leonard is in attendance, but the Colts' brass is hedging its bets on the time table for his full return.
General manager Chris Ballard was asked about Leonard, and he quickly set expectations for his return.
“Yeah. First thing is, let me tell you, he has worked extremely hard. He has passed the physical, but that does not mean he will be back in full contact," said Ballard at his media availability on Tuesday.
"We’ve got a progression in play here. He will start out at practice and pretty much just go through individual, start building his endurance back up. But slowly but surely, we’ll get there."
"He has worked extremely hard. There is really no timeline on exactly when he’ll be completely cleared for contact, but it’s good to get him back – just his presence back on the team, back out in drill work is important for us."
Those comments should feel familiar to Colts fans as they're nearly identical to last year. Leonard had surgery in June of 2022 and never got back to full strength. He played in just three games before being shelved for the season after Week 9.
Ballard explained why providing an exact time table for Leonard's return has been so difficult.
“It’s hard because he had a little bit of a nerve issue, but what I will tell you is it’s been really good," said Ballard. "He has diligently worked to get back. Time will tell on it overall, but right now very encouraged."
2022 was a wash for Leonard and the Colts. As they attempt to bounce back from a disappointing season, Leonard's and the Colt's recovery could go hand in hand.
