Shaquille Leonard Announces Retirement, Finds New Purpose in Coaching

INDIANAPOLIS — Shaquille Leonard, the former All-Pro linebacker, announced his retirement from professional football on Wednesday. During a news conference at Lucas Oil Stadium, he expressed how his relationship with the game changed during his time away.

Leonard, who previously won the 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year and became known for his aggressive defensive play, stated he initially struggled after stepping away from the sport. “I stopped watching football. It just made me mad just seeing the clips, seeing the game and just wishing that I was out there,” he admitted.

However, Leonard found renewal through coaching at his former high school, Lake View High in South Carolina. “Once I started coaching, I found the love once again,” he said. “They make me smile. They made me fall back in love with football.”

He was joined at the announcement by his wife and three children, with his youngest playfully joining him at the podium. Leonard’s retirement marks a day of recognition during the Colts’ home game, where he will be honored with a halftime tribute.

During his six seasons with the Colts, Leonard was a standout player, recording 12 interceptions, 17 forced fumbles, and 32 tackles for loss. Reflecting on his career, he noted, “I come from a small town, and they wrote me off a long time ago. And just to be where my feet are today, I’m beyond blessed.”

Leonard faced challenges in recent years due to a recurring nerve issue in his back that affected his performance. After being released by the Colts in 2023, he underwent multiple surgeries on his ankle and hip.

Despite attempts at a comeback last spring, he realized his body could not keep up, saying, “Since 2018, it hasn’t been a year where I didn’t have surgery. My body was just wearing down.” Leonard was known as “The Maniac” during his college days at South Carolina State, earning praise for his relentless energy.

Colts general manager Chris Ballard highlighted Leonard’s impact on the game, saying, “I’m fortunate in my career to be around [Brian] Urlacher, [Lance] Briggs, Derrick Johnson, who I think are truly special impact linebackers. And unequivocally, [Leonard] is right in the same mix.”