Texas’s Arlington This week, three-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard of the Indianapolis Colts became a free agent, a surprising move given his high profile.
After clearing waivers, the 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year has been connected to the Dallas Cowboys’ interest in various reports this week.
Following the Cowboys’ 45-10 victory over the Washington Commanders, general manager and owner Jerry Jones was questioned about Leonard. He stated that the Cowboys have reached out to Leonard’s camp, but he would not comment on the club’s level of interest.
“Contact has been made, but I’m sure every team is assuming that if they are in the hunt, that they could have an interest in him,” Jones stated. “But first, we need to check on a few health-related issues and other things. For now, I would prefer not to be on that list. I want to go do our assigned homework, take care of business, and see if this is something that could work for us. Nothing more has been done by us.”
Leonard’s possible addition could restore experience to the defense’s second level after veteran linebacker Leighton Vander Esch was lost for the season. According to the team’s current assessment, Jones is unsure of the potential impact he could have.
He said, “I’m not aware of that.” Before the game, we had a brief meeting to discuss it. We’ll see how our evaluation goes. We’ll give him a close examination. Examine a few health-related items. I am aware that numerous teams are considering him. I don’t want to reveal how much we both find him interesting.”
Second-year players Damone Clark and Markquese Bell, who have both performed well in the bigger roles they have assumed, have led the linebacker corps. Jones was quick to compliment them during Thursday’s Leonard conversation.
“Well, [Clark] played outstanding out there tonight,” Jones stated. “I really enjoy the way our linebackers are playing overall. I won’t be making any comments at this time regarding Leonard’s suitability as a replacement for us.”
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