Can Shaq Leonard Aid Lions' Defense?

The Colts waived Leonard Tuesday.

The Detroit Lions have been searching for the right mix of production on their defensive line throughout the 2023 season. 

Their pass-rush has yielded up-and-down results. At points, the rush looks unstoppable, while at other times, it sees the Lions go an entire game without recording a sack. 

A potential solution to the problems has emerged. Shaquille Leonard was released by the Indianapolis Colts Tuesday, and will now hit the waiver wire. 

Drafted in the second round in 2018, Leonard emerged as a key defensive force for the Colts early in his career. He was the Defensive Rookie of The Year in 2018, after posting seven sacks and two interceptions. 

He followed that with five interceptions in 2019, along with five sacks. From his rookie season through 2021, Leonard was either a first-or-second-team AP All-Pro selection. 

However, his production has dipped in recent years. He hasn't recorded a sack in each of the last three campaigns, with the last one coming in 2020. Because of this, it's fair to wonder just how impactful he could be in the pass-rush element of his game.

He's earned a 49.2 pass-rush grade from Pro Football Focus, which is the lowest mark he's posted in that area in his career. 

Injuries limited him to just three games a season ago. He's on pace for yet another 100-tackle season, with 65 through nine games. So, he has remained productive in that aspect. 

Leonard is just 28, so he likely has good seasons still in front of him. He's an appealing player who could be a difference-maker for a team down the stretch. 

Where this argument becomes tougher is the fact that Leonard is beginning on waivers rather than the traditional free-agent market. If a team files a claim on him, it will have to pick up the remainder of his contract. 

As it stands, Leonard is set to make $6.11 million for the remainder of this season. In 2024, he'll be owed roughly $16.1 million. The following two years have him set to make around $19 million in each. 

Lions Still Seeking Improved Play in Third Quarter

It's unlikely that the Lions would be willing to take on a commitment like that. However, if he clears waivers and hits the free-agent market, it would be more likely to see Brad Holmes and company weigh their options. 

Leonard has been a productive player for Indianapolis' defense despite the lack of big plays. Should he clear waivers, the Lions would benefit from picking up another piece to aid their defense. 

He's not the pass-rusher that many clamored for the Lions to acquire at the trade deadline, but he's a skilled defender capable of being an impact player. Down the stretch of the season, Detroit could bolster its chances of a deep run by bringing in a player of his caliber.