Shaquille Leonard, formerly known as Darius Leonard, was once hailed as one of the NFL’s premier linebackers. His journey from a standout rookie to a three-time All-Pro and eventual retirement is a testament to his resilience and dedication. In this comprehensive article, we delve into Leonard’s contract history, the reasons behind his name change, the challenges he faced leading to his retirement, and an overview of his career.
Contract Journey: From Rookie to All-Pro
2018: A Promising Start
The Indianapolis Colts selected Leonard in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft with the 36th overall pick. He signed a four-year, $7.24 million contract that included a $4.16 million guarantee and a $3.35 million signing bonus. Leonard’s impact was immediate; he earned NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year honors and was named to the Pro Bowl in his first season.
2021: A Lucrative Extension
In August 2021, Leonard secured a five-year, $99.25 million extension with the Colts, making him the highest-paid outside linebacker in the NFL at that time. His performance justified the investment: Leonard led the league with eight forced fumbles and earned First-Team All-Pro honors for the third consecutive year.
2023: A Surprising Release
Despite his accolades, Leonard’s tenure with the Colts ended unexpectedly. In November 2023, the Colts waived Leonard, citing concerns over his back injuries and a desire to move in a different direction. This move was surprising given Leonard’s previous performance and contract. He briefly joined the Philadelphia Eagles but did not sign with any team in 2024.
Name Change: Embracing His Identity
In July 2022, Leonard announced that he preferred to be called by his middle name, Shaquille, rather than his first name, Darius. He explained that “Shaquille is my middle name that I’ve went by since ’95.” This decision was a personal choice to align his public persona with his lifelong identity.
What Happened to Shaquille Leonard?
Injuries and Setbacks
Leonard’s career was marred by significant injuries. In 2022, he underwent two back surgeries to address nerve issues causing lower-body pain, limiting him to just three games that season. He described that period as “the hardest year of my life.”
Despite efforts to return to form, Leonard’s role with the Colts was limited in 2023 due to ongoing concerns over his back. This led to his release from the team and a brief stint with the Eagles. However, he did not sign with any team in 2024, leading many to speculate that his playing days were over.
Retirement Announcement
In October 2025, Leonard officially announced his retirement from the NFL. The Indianapolis Colts honored him by allowing him to retire as a member of the franchise during halftime of a game against the Las Vegas Raiders. Leonard participated in the pre-game fanfare by “banging the anvil” and addressed the home crowd at halftime.
Career Overview
Early Life and College
Born on July 27, 1995, in Nichols, South Carolina, Leonard attended Lake View High School. He played college football at South Carolina State University, where he was a standout linebacker. His college accolades included being named the MEAC Defensive Player of the Year in 2016 and 2017.
NFL Career
Leonard’s NFL career began with the Colts in 2018. Over his career, he amassed 637 total tackles, 16 sacks, 17 forced fumbles, and 7 fumble recoveries. He was known for his aggressive playstyle, earning him the nickname “The Maniac.” Leonard was a three-time Pro Bowler and a four-time All-Pro, with three First-Team selections and one Second-Team selection.
Legacy and Impact
Shaquille Leonard‘s journey through the NFL is a story of triumph, adversity, and resilience. From his rapid rise as a defensive powerhouse to the challenges posed by injuries, Leonard’s career was marked by determination and passion for the game. His decision to retire as a Colt underscores his deep connection to the team and the city of Indianapolis.
While his playing days have ended, Leonard’s impact on the NFL and his legacy as one of the league’s premier linebackers will not be forgotten.
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