Indianapolis Colts outside linebacker Shaquille Leonard (53) celebrates after making an interception Sunday, Jan. 2, 2022, during a game against the Las Vegas Raiders at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Jenna Watson/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK

Colts All-Pro LB Shaquille Leonard expected to miss games while recovering from back surgery

By Victor Barbosa | Last updated 8/9/22

Two weeks ago early during Indianapolis Colts training camp, Shaquille Leonard said he was " happy" in his recovery from offseason back surgery but didn't have a timetable for his return to action. Now, it looks as if the All-Pro linebacker will at least miss some time when the regular season kicks off in September.

#Colts star LB Shaquille Leonard is expected to miss regular season games while still recovering from his back injury.

Leonard is expected to return at "some point" this season, per NFLN. pic.twitter.com/3MIMKuIqBC
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) August 9, 2022

In early June, it was reported that the 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year would likely miss the start of training camp following his surgery. Leonard didn't participate in on-field work this spring because of an ankle injury as well.

The 27-year-old collected a league-leading eight forced fumbles during the 2021 regular season, while adding 122 total tackles and eight passes defended in 16 games.

Other members of the Colts' projected starting linebackers group include fifth-year pro Zaire Franklin and fourth-year player Bobby Okereke.

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