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Former All-Pro LB Shaq Leonard signs with NFC team

Originally posted on Larry Brown Sports
By Steve DelVecchio | Last updated 12/4/23

The Philadelphia Eagles added some help on defense in the wake of their blowout loss to the San Francisco 49ers.

Veteran linebacker Shaq Leonard signed a one-year deal with the Eagles, according to multiple reports.

Sources: The #Eagles and former #Colts All-Pro LB Shaq Leonard have agreed to terms on a 1-year deal after he took a visit to Philly last week. A potential big addition for the stretch run.

Leonard also visited the #Cowboys, but Philly was always the preferred spot. pic.twitter.com/gACJRIoIuK

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) December 4, 2023

Leonard also drew interest from the Dallas Cowboys and took a visit with them last week, but he wound up agreeing to a deal with the Eagles.

The 28-year-old was waived by the Indianapolis Colts last month in an unexpected move. There was speculation that he asked to be cut after seeing his playing time reduced, but Leonard said he was just as stunned by the Colts’ decision as anyone else.

Leonard has been one of the best linebackers in football since since the Colts selected him in the second round of the 2018 NFL Draft. He made four consecutive Pro Bowl teams from 2018-2021. He was also named a First-team All-Pro three times during that span.

The 49ers had their way with the Eagles on Sunday en route to a 42-19 victory. While Philadelphia already wanted to sign Leonard, it would not be a surprise if the way the NFC Championship Game rematch went for the Eagles created a greater sense of urgency.

This article first appeared on Larry Brown Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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