The Philadelphia Eagles were the only team boasting just one loss before heading to the Week 13 match against the San Francisco 49ers. The match was indeed a high-voltage match, as both teams are vying for a playoff run and have a good equation in the run.
Besides on-field drama regarding the ejection of the 49ers’ Dre Greenlaw and the Eagles security chief Dom DiSandro, the match saw the Philly’s defense suffer poorly on the field. To revive the D-line following the disappointing 19-42 loss, the Eagles decided to sign linebacker Shaquille Leonard ahead of their Week 14 match against the Dallas Cowboys.
Shaquille Leonard signs one-year contract with Eagles
Shaquille Leonard faced an unexpected turn in his career when the Indianapolis Colts released him on November 21. However, the NFL journey for this six-year veteran took a smooth turn as he swiftly transitioned to exploring new opportunities in the league by meeting with both the Dallas Cowboys and then, the Philadelphia Eagles.
After considering his options, the LB made up his mind to join the Eagles to facilitate their triumphant return to the Super Bowl. The team’s social media platform confirmed the deal saying, “We’ve agreed to terms on a one-year deal with LB Shaquille Leonard.”
After getting drafted by the Colts as the 36th overall draft pick in 2018, the veteran made an immediate impact on the squad by leading the league with a franchise-record 163 tackles in his debut season. His performance didn’t go unnoticed, garnering accolades such as Defensive Rookie of the Year, along with being named first-team All-Pro in 2018, 2020, and 2021. Three Pro Bowl appearances further cemented his reputation as one of the league’s standout LBs.
However, the three-time All-Pro star faced a challenging phase in his career, grappling with back surgeries in the previous season to rectify nerve issues impacting his performance. The setbacks limited his explosiveness before ultimately leading to an early exit from the season after just three games. The footballer’s return in the 2023 season was marked by inconsistency in playing time, causing public frustration as he voiced concerns about reduced opportunities with the Colts.
Shaquille Leonard to debut vs Cowboys in Week 14
The upcoming showdown between the Eagles and the Cowboys carries immense weight, reminiscent of their recent clash where Philly emerged victorious with a 28-23 scoreline. However, the rematch promises high-stakes implications, particularly in the NFC No. 1 seed race. Shaquille Leonard will suit up at AT&T Stadium on Sunday to smash the Cowboys with his prowess.
With quarterback Brock Purdy’s excellence, the 49ers made a stunning Week 13 victory by exploiting the Eagles’ defensive weaknesses, scoring touchdowns on an alarming six consecutive possessions. Similarly, the Bills capitalized on Philly’s defensive vulnerabilities by amassing over 500 yards despite the Eagles’ narrow 37-34 triumph in Week 12.
Coach Nick Sirianni, having previously worked with the LB during his tenure as the Colts offensive coordinator, lauded his exceptional abilities. Recalling the vet’s knack for creating turnovers and disrupting passing lanes, Sirianni highlighted his defensive prowess as similar to Jim Boeheim’s famed 2-3 zone defense at Syracuse.
“He had a knack for the football and how to get the football. What I remember is just how, as an offensive coordinator, how hard he was to throw around. His length was comparable to Jim Boeheim’s 2-3 zone at Syracuse. He’s going to make a play in the passing lane”, he said per The Star.
The 2018 second-round pick recorded 32 tackles for losses, 31 passes defensed for 12 interceptions along with 17 forced fumbles, 7 fumble recoveries, and 15 sacks. His potential resurgence to his former dominant self presents a beacon of hope for Jalen Hurts’ squad now. If Leonard can reclaim his previous form, his impact could be pivotal in the team’s pursuit of championship glory.
