This week saw a noteworthy development in the football world as three-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard of the Indianapolis Colts was unexpectedly released. Leonard later cleared waivers. After his release, rumors circulated that the Dallas Cowboys were considering Leonard.
After the Cowboys defeated the Washington Commanders 45-10, general manager and team owner Jerry Jones answered questions regarding Leonard. Although Jones did not reveal the team’s interest level, he did affirm that the Cowboys had gotten in touch with Leonard’s agents.
“There has been communication, but I’m sure every team assumes they could be interested in him if they are actively pursuing him,” Jones said. But first, we need to check on a few health-related issues and other things. Right now, I don’t want to be included on that list. We have homework to do, so I’m going to go check if this fits us. We haven’t taken any further action.
Leonard’s possible addition becomes more significant in light of veteran linebacker Leighton Vander Esch’s injury that ended the season. It might add an experienced presence to the group’s secondary defense. But Jones remained wary of making snap judgments about Leonard’s significance.
He said, “I don’t know about that.” Before the game, we had a brief meeting to discuss it. We’ll see how our evaluation goes. We’ll examine him thoroughly, taking into account his health. I know he’s being watched by a lot of teams. I don’t want to reveal how much we both find him interesting.
Although second-year players Damone Clark and Markquese Bell have performed admirably in more responsibilities, Jones praised their efforts as the unit’s linebacker anchors. He did not specifically say whether Leonard could be a good replacement for someone on the team.
Jones exclaimed, “Well, [Clark] played outstanding out there tonight.” “I really enjoy the way our linebackers are playing overall. I’m not going to comment at this time.
