Shaquille Leonard retires: Indianapolis Colts to honour three-time All-Pro linebacker

Indianapolis Colts fans will bid farewell to a franchise icon this Sunday (October 5) as three-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard officially retires as a member of the team. The Colts announced Wednesday that Leonard, a defensive standout and community leader, will address fans at halftime during the team’s game against the Las Vegas Raiders. He will also take part in a pregame tradition, serving as the team’s anvil striker before kickoff at Lucas Oil Stadium.

Shaquille Leonard's career

Drafted in 2018 from South Carolina State, Leonard burst onto the NFL scene, earning Defensive Rookie of the Year honors with a league-leading 163 tackles. His relentless playstyle led to three Pro Bowls and first-team All-Pro selections in 2018, 2020, and 2021. In 2021, he topped the NFL with eight forced fumbles. Over 70 games with the Colts, Leonard recorded 614 tackles, 12 interceptions, and 17 forced fumbles.

Battling back from injury

Injuries derailed Shaquille Leonard’s career in 2022, limiting him to three games after two back surgeries. He called it the “hardest year of my life.” Released by the Indianapolis Colts in November 2023 after reduced playing time, he briefly joined the Philadelphia Eagles but did not play in 2024. Despite challenges, his bond with Indianapolis remained strong, highlighted by a heartfelt in-game tribute post-release.

Shaquille Leonard’s lasting legacy

Shaquille Leonard’s impact extended beyond football, with significant community work earning him admiration in Indianapolis. Sunday’s ceremony will celebrate a player whose intensity and playmaking defined an era for the Indianapolis Colts.

When and how to watch Las Vegas Raiders at Indianapolis Colts matchup?

The match between the Colts and the Raiders is scheduled for October 5 at 1 PM ET. It will be played at the Lucas Oil Stadium. The game will broadcast on FOX network and it will be available to stream live on Fubo.