Indianapolis Colts are making waves in the NFL fraternity by releasing their 2018 defensive rookie of the year. The franchise released Shaquille Leonard, a former linebacker for the Colts on Tuesday. The defensive rookie was once anticipated to be the NFL’s most dominant linebacker, but soon his dominance faded due to his injuries. 

Leonard’s injuries in 2021 and 2023 limited his presence on the gridiron. This has, eventually, resulted in a massive setback for the football player who penned down an emotional farewell message, reflecting on his time with the Colts. The 28-year-old also received a special mention from Jim Irsay, the team’s owner, who couldn’t help but honestly speak about Leonard’s contributions. 

Shaquille Leonard broke his silence on the sudden cut

After getting released by the Colts, Leonard showcased his gratitude toward his tenure with the Colts. Leonard was a three-time first-team All-Pro selection, where he played 70 games with the Colts. Leonard took to his Twitter account to share his thoughts on his release by writing, “Indy, I want to thank you for accepting me and my family with open arms.”

“These past 6 years have been nothing but incredible! Through the good times and bad time, y’all stood by my side,” he further added. Leonard also felt the need to apologize for not bringing that trophy back to the 317. But, overall, he conveyed how amazing the energy in Lucas Oil has been.

This urged the South Carolina native to show his gratitude for the Colts fans as well. He said, “I’m thankful to play for such an amazing fan base. I love you guys and wish the Colts nothing but the best!”

In his signature style Shaquille Leonard signed off by quoting, “Maniac out,” an informal nickname given to the energetic star. However, the football player wasn’t the only one to get emotional online. 

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The owner of the Colts Jim Irsay also shared a heartfelt note for the following event. Irsay applauded Leonard for his off-field activities and his service to the Colts.

“Off the field, he’s a servant leader,” says Jim Irsay

Leonard was an All-Pro in 2018, 2020 and 2021. Acknowledging his promising tenure with the Colts, owner Irsay stated, “Colts Nation will always remember The Maniac’s palpable energy on the field with each tackle, interception, punchout, and fumble recovery. Off the field, he’s a servant leader and assisted numerous families in both his hometown and the Indianapolis community. “

Further, as the owner captioned his post “tough business”, he added, “We’re thankful for Shaq and the contributions he made to our organization. We wish him and his beautiful family the best moving forward.”

In his complete health condition, Leonard is still considered one of the best linebackers in the NFL. After playing just three games in the 2022 season, the linebacker is now tagged as a “free agent.” However, the burning query of the moment is which team is going to sign the pro linebacker. Let us know your thoughts on Leaonard’s potential new home.

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