Eagle Sign Former Colts All-Pro LB

Following his decision, free agency linebacker Shaquille Leonard signed a one-year contract with the Philadelphia Eagles, according to ESPN NFL insider Adam Schefter.

The 28-year-old, who was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2018 and a three-time Pro Bowler, abruptly left the Indianapolis Colts last month after more than five years of service.

Prior to finalizing his choice, Leonard paid visits to the Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys last week. After some deliberation over the weekend, the former South Carolina State second-round pick decided to sign with the Eagles.

Added LB help in Philadelphia: Former Colts’ All-Pro LB Shaquille Leonard is signing a one-year deal with the Eagles, per sources.

The Eagles next game is Sunday night at Dallas vs. the Cowboys, the other team Leonard visited. pic.twitter.com/Kf5ggbP9TD

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) December 4, 2023

The linebacker group on the Eagles defense, in particular, has struggled with injuries. Zach Cunningham missed a recent game because of a hamstring ailment, and Nakobe Dean is on injured reserve with a foot issue.

They now have Christian Elliss, Nicholas Morrow, and Ben VanSumeren as their three active off-ball linebackers.

The Eagles’ defense was not strong in their most recent game against the San Francisco 49ers, as they lost 42–19 at home. They surrendered over 450 yards of offense and let the 49ers convert eight out of eleven third-down opportunities.

With Leonard on board, the Eagles should be able to make a deep postseason run with their defense strengthened. Leonard had also thought about joining the Cowboys, who they will play on Sunday night.