The Indianapolis Colts made this an eventful Tuesday by parting ways with former All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard.
As both sides disagreed about what type of role he should have within Gus Bradley’s defense, it ultimately came to a point where the Colts made a business decision to waive Leonard and the three remaining years on his contract.
With the move official, the Colts now have to replace Leonard, who played 70% of the defensive snaps during his nine games (all starts) this season. How might they plan on doing that?
Fortunately, the answer isn’t difficult at all.
With Leonard now gone, the Colts likely will lean on fifth-year linebacker E.J. Speed, who was splitting time with Leonard at the WILL position, mostly coming in on third downs.
Speed had a fantastic 2022 campaign that led to him signing a two-year contract extension before free agency arrived during the offseason. He set career-high marks in tackles (63), solo tackles (37), tackles for loss (seven), passes defended (two) and forced fumbles (two).
He’s been far better in coverage than Leonard has this season, and he’s a better fit for Bradley’s defense. Where Leonard thrives as a free defender working off his instincts, he struggled to play in a more structured role.
Bradley’s scheme had him working in the latter role mostly on early downs. It also wouldn’t be a surprise if Bradley leaned a bit more on second-year safety Nick Cross, opting to use more three-safety sets.
But for the most part, it will be Speed’s role for the remainder of the season. He’s shown promise throughout his career, and he’s produced when called upon in a bigger role.
Now, he’ll have the chance to cement himself for good next to Zaire Franklin as Indy’s new linebacker tandem in the middle of the defense.
