Ex-Colts All-Pro LB Linked to Broncos, Per ESPN Insider

admin | November 24, 2023 | Other Clubs | No Comments

With his impressive resume, are the Denver Broncos interested in acquiring veteran linebacker Shaq Leonard?

The defense of the Denver Broncos has made a difference. Denver’s defense has turned the tide of the 2023 season after a historically poor start, becoming one of the league’s most opportunistic teams.

Even though Vance Joseph’s team has been playing better lately, it looks like the Broncos need some experienced assistance.

Denver is one of the few teams linked to recently waived linebacker Shaq Leonard of the Indianapolis Colts, according to ESPN’s Ed Werder.

Following reports from The Athletic’s Dianna Russini that the Philadelphia Eagles, Dallas Cowboys, and Minnesota Vikings were among the clubs interested in signing Leonard, Werder is now adding the Broncos to the mix.

After joining the league in 2018, Leonard became one of the NFL’s top linebackers. He was chosen as the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, led the NFL in tackles, and made the first team of the All-Pro team during his rookie season.

Over the following four seasons, Leonard would continue to flourish, earning three first-team and one second-team All-Pro selection along with three Pro Bowl selections. Indianapolis would guarantee him $52.5 million of the $98.5 million contract extension he would receive for his play.

Unfortunately, Leonard’s injuries from his physically demanding play style started to pile up for both the Colts and him. Leonard’s back issues caused him particular problems.

Leonard just doesn’t seem to be the same player he was early in his career after undergoing two different operations in June and November of 2022 to treat a back vertebral disc bulging. The Colts released Leonard earlier this week due to his decline in play and large salary. Leonard cleared waivers earlier in the week.

Although Denver’s defense is superior, it may still use more talent. The defense is having trouble stopping opponents on a regular basis, ranking 29th in success rate since Week 5, despite the Broncos’ historic turnover run.

In addition, linebacker Alex Singleton has struggled for Denver this season despite recording a high rate of tackles earned. This is in contrast to his strong performance last year, when he missed a lot of tackles and suffered in coverage. Additionally, Drew Sanders, a 2023 third-round pick who struggled hard earlier this season when called upon, doesn’t seem like a viable option for the Broncos.

Although Josey Jewell has his limits, overall this season he has been reliable. Leonard would, at the absolute least, provide the job some competition and an experienced presence.