Shaquille Leonard’s journey with the Indianapolis Colts ended on a note that still stings. The former All-Pro linebacker, who made a significant impact over six seasons, was released in 2023 as he struggled to return to form after multiple back surgeries. The split was particularly painful due to a rift with then-defensive coordinator Gus Bradley.
Leonard opened up about the experience on the "On My Soul" podcast, hosted by former Colts player Eric Ebron and former NFL player Jaylen Samuel. He shared the emotional toll it took on him when he heard Bradley had labeled him a "bad teammate" in the weeks before his release.
“That’s what broke my heart,” Leonard confessed. “It broke my heart to the point where I said, ‘I don’t want to play in the NFL anymore. If this is how ruthless it is.’”
Despite acknowledging that he wasn’t at his peak, Leonard felt he gave everything he could to the Colts. He expressed frustration over being scapegoated for the defense’s struggles.
“We were playing bad defensively, not just because of me, but somebody had to take the blame,” Leonard said. “If the DC ain’t taking the blame, the next person’s gotta go.”
Leonard emphasized the harsh realities of the business side of football. “I understand the business part of it, where it’s got to be you or me, but just be real about it,” he added. “Don’t tarnish my name and my reputation and what I’ve done for this organization.”
After his release, Leonard joined the Philadelphia Eagles for the remainder of the 2023 season before deciding to retire. His story is a reminder of the personal battles players face beyond the field, highlighting the emotional complexities of professional sports.