After the stunning move from the Indianapolis Colts to release star linebacker Shaquille Leonard, the Dallas Cowboys now expressing interest in the three-time All-Pro. The rumors started spiraling even since the linebacker cleared off waivers. It’s now in Dallas’ full control to lay the hammer to make a move on the star. Leighton Vander Esch’s career is already in jeopardy so this move complements Markquese Bell and Damone Clark.
No matter the severity of the Esch’s injury, it’s clear that Dallas needs serious veteran help at linebacker. They already have Rashaan Evans who was activated to the starting roster. So, one last veteran piece won’t hurt the team’s rotation. However, it’s all up to the Dallas Cowboys’ remaining cap space. As a free agent, Shaquille Leonard could sign with any team, and there is a chance that the Cowboys will need to outbid a handful of teams for his services.
He still has gas left in the tank because he’s still a good asset to add to the already bolstered defense. Leonard started nine games for the Colts this season posting 65 tackles in 2023. The veteran played just three games in 2022 as Leonard had injury issues. Still, he can mold himself back quickly under Dan Quinn and this explosive defense.
Colts’ three-time All-Pro LB Darius Shaquille Leonard cleared waivers today, per source. He is now a free agent.
Teams expected to have some level of interest include the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys. pic.twitter.com/l1K3msBc4G
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 22, 2023
The Dallas Cowboys Should Pursue All-Pro Linebacker Shaquille Leonard
Why This Signing Makes Sense for the Cowboys
If it happens, his monstrous signing would be a big deal for America’s team. Brace yourselves Dallas fans, this would change the landscape of this already extraordinary defense. The loss of Vander-Esch is hurting the team because one last injury would take a hit at depth. Dallas already can’t afford to leave the burden to Bell and Clark, so this signing is imminent.
Evans is expected to get to get some playing time so this signing would only add more fire. However, the only downside is the injuries that Leonard has been battling throughout his career. This won’t matter because when he’s healthy and hungry he plays his best football. Based on his PFF grades, he’s playing his best still in running and tackling.
Leonard has grown dissatisfied with his role in Indianapolis so his release was bound for him to find a new team. Despite his injuries and a significant drop in his production on the field, he can make it back to fascinating production in Dallas. However, this situation is validated in a sense since the Colts have taken him off in passing scenarios.
Shaquille Leonard Could Be the Missing Piece for Cowboys
Luckily for the Cowboys, they don’t really need a coverage linebacker right now. Between their two starters and a slew of options, they are rich in pass defense. It’s the run defense the Dallas Cowboys are severely lacking in and Leonard can be the answer to that solution. Obviously, the Cowboys still need star power at their depth since they are so young.
It makes the Cowboys very attractive since they are low on depth and may make Leonard want to sign with Dallas. It won’t be a full-time role for the All-Pro like he had with the Colts. It’s potentially still a significant role but now with a dominant defense. The Cowboys can afford it since they will only be shuffling a little bit of cash.
However, the only downside is eating up their cap space. This bodes well for Dallas since Leonard is a low-risk, high-reward signing. He’s still a good asset since he will add run support skills to the team that is in need. It’s all up to the man in the front office to make a move.
Main Photo: Jenna Watson – USA Today Sports
