Shaq Leonard’s former teammates share memories after his retirement

Peter Miller

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Shaq Leonard’s former teammates share memories after his retirement image

The Indianapolis Colts announced Wednesday that former linebacker Shaquille Leonard is retiring from the NFL as a member of the organization. 

Leonard, nicknamed “the Maniac,” had a short but decorated NFL career. In his six seasons, the former second-round pick was a four-time All Pro, the 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year and a three-time Pro Bowler. In addition, he recorded 637 tackles (34 for loss) and 16 sacks. But he was best known for his turnover creation, forcing 17 fumbles and snagging 12 interceptions. 

His career was cut short due to back issues which required surgery. After plenty of missed time and multiple operations, Leonard returned to the field, but was no longer the same player. He last played in the NFL in 2023 with the Philadelphia Eagles. He retires at 30 years old. 

Leonard was just as beloved off the field as he was on it given his bright and energetic personality. Following news of his retirement, some of Leonard’s former teammates shared what they remember about their time with him. 

Zaire Franklin, who was drafted alongside Leonard in 2018 and shared the field with him until 2023, recalled his first NFL road trip with Leonard. The two were roommates for Indy’s Week 2 trip to Washington, a trip neither will ever forget. 

Franklin recalled having a snoring problem (one that persists to this day) which was made worse by an illness that became so bad that Leonard was forced to sleep in the bathtub of their shared hotel room. 

The ironic part? Leonard went out and had one of the best individual performances of his career, totalling 19 tackles (tied for fifth-most in a game and Leonard’s single game career-high), a sack, 1.5 tackles for loss and a forced fumble, earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors for his effort. 

On a more sincere note, Jonathan Taylor spoke about Leonard’s impact on and off the field.

“(He’s) one of the best players I’ve ever played with,” Taylor said. “His impact, his leadership…I’m glad he was able to retire a Colt.” 

The Colts will hold a retirement ceremony for Leonard during halftime of Sunday’s Week 5 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders. 

Peter Miller

Peter Miller is a freelance writer with The Sporting News. He is pursuing a degree in sports media from Indiana University-Bloomington. He is a contributor for the Hoosier Network, covering the Indianapolis Colts and Hoosier athletics. He has experience as a credentialed reporter at the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament and is an NFL Draft enthusiast.