Colts place All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard on waivers in shocking move

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The Indianapolis Colts shocked the NFL world on Tuesday by announcing that three-time first-team All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard had been placed on waivers.

"Colts Nation will always remember The Maniac’s palpable energy on the field with each tackle, interception, punchout, and fumble recovery," Colts owner Jim Irsay said in a statement, which he tweeted with the caption "Tough business." "Off the field, he’s a servant leader and assisted numerous families in both his hometown and the Indianapolis community. We’re thankful for Shaq and the contributions he made to our organization. We wish him and his beautiful family the best moving forward."

Leonard released his own statement, thanking Indianapolis for his time while representing the Colts and the city.

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Shaquille Leonard of the Indianapolis Colts is seen during the game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium, November 5, 2023, in Charlotte, North Carolina. (Grant Halverson/Getty Images)

"Indy, I want to thank you for accepting me and my family with open arms," his statement reads. "These past 6 years has been nothing but incredible! Through the good times and bad times y’all stood by my side. I apologize for not bringing that trophy back to the 317. The energy in Lucas Oil has been nothing but amazing and I thank you for every memory. I’m thankful to play for such an amazing fan base. I love you guys and wish the Colts nothing but the best!"

Leonard said this month that he was frustrated with his lack of playing time with the Colts, but the team expressed to him that his role wasn’t going to change.

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