FA linebacker Shaq Leonard to visit Cowboys this week

It appears that the public courting by the front office and staff appears to be genuine. The Dallas Cowboys have a need at linebacker, and inexplicably, the Indianapolis Colts put one with a strong history of great play on the free agent market.

Shaq Leonard, formerly Darius, was released last week in a surprise move by the Colts. The 2018 second-round pick has three All-Pros and three Pro Bowl appearances in his career, but back injuries robbed him of most of 2022 and has limited his playing time in 2023. Still, he would signal a big addition for the Cowboys who have had to weather things without their middle linebacker, Leighton Vander Esch.

And it appears they will get their crack at signing him, as Leonard is scheduled to visit The Star this coming week, according to Dallas Morning News’ Calvin Watkins.

With Mike McCarthy saying the Cowboys have interest in Shaq Leonard, a source close to the situation says Leonard will visit the Cowboys this week. A specific date hasn’t been finalized. @dmn_cowboys

— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) November 26, 2023

Vander Esch has been out with a neck injury and after a month on the sideline a return this season was ruled out while it was reported he may not be able to return to the field ever. Dallas has been playing with Damone Clark and converted safety Markquese Bell, with midseason signing Rashaan Evans playing more in recent weeks.

So while Leonard may not still be playing at a Pro Bowl level, he would improve the depth tremendously with whatever he has left in the tank. His ceiling is obviously much higher than that if he has more in the tank than what the Colts believe he had.

Leonard cleared waivers as a claiming team would’ve had to assume over $6 million in remaining 2023 salary, but as a free agent teams are allowed to negotiate with Leonard if he wants to sign with them.