Report: Eagles sign former All-Pro linebacker Shaq Leonard

Former Colts LB Shaq Leonard has made his decision.

On Monday, The Eagles announced that they signed the 3x All-Pro to a one-year deal.

We've agreed to terms on a one-year deal with LB Shaquille Leonard. pic.twitter.com/WjCsPDHRVQ

— Philadelphia Eagles (@Eagles) December 4, 2023

Leonard visited both Dallas and Philadelphia last week following his release from Indianapolis. He took the weekend to ponder his decision and ultimately chose to aid an Eagles’ defense desperate for LB help.

In their 42-19 loss to the 49ers, Philadelphia got dissected by Brock Purdy over the middle. They were without Zach Cunningham due to injury, and Kyle Shanahan made it a point to target their reserve linebackers.

When targeting Nicholas Morrow and Christain Ellis yesterday, Purdy went 8/11 passing for 208 yards, two TDs, and 0 INTs. Of the 49ers’ 314 passing yards vs. the Eagles, 213 yards came after the catch. Leonard, who is coming off back surgery, isn’t the player he once was, but he sure as hell can’t hurt.

Leonard was the NFL’s Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2018 and earned first-team All-Pro honors in 2018, 2020, and 2021. In 70 games with Indianapolis, Leonard tallied 32 tackles for loss, 31 passes defended, 20 QB hits, 12 INTs, and 17 forced fumbles.

The 28-year-old, now reunited with Nick Sirianni, will look to make his Eagles debut in a pivotal Week 14 matchup vs. Dallas.

SHAQUILLE! @dsleon45 with the huge interception!

📺: #WASvsIND on FOX
📱: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/8htY7Ysaz9 pic.twitter.com/XqZHx9fLQY

— NFL (@NFL) October 30, 2022

Mandatory Credit: Getty Images