The news that another outstanding player is joining the team from… gives the Philadelphia Eagles a big boost.
Leonard will join the 10-2 Eagles in Philadelphia, who own the best record in the NFL despite their Sunday loss to the San Francisco 49ers.
Leonard participated in nine games with Indianapolis this year after playing just three in 2022, but he became dissatisfied with his small role. Every week, he expressed his mounting annoyance until the Colts chose to waive him.
Why he was necessary for Philadelphia
The timing of Leonard’s signing with the Eagles is crucial. When Nakobe Dean was placed on injured reserve on November 16 due to a foot injury, the team faced depth problems at linebacker. Then, in Sunday’s 42-19 loss to the 49ers, starting linebacker Zach Cunningham was sidelined due to a hamstring injury sustained against the Buffalo Bills.
The frequency with which the 49ers took advantage of mismatches against linebackers Christian Elliss and Nicholas Morrow contributed to the Eagles’ collapse in that defeat. In pass coverage, Morrow was frequently singled out, and Deebo Samuel managed to get past him to score a touchdown reception that spanned 48 yards. Also, the 49ers’ average yardage per carry was 5.2. Weeks of problems had been ongoing at linebacker, but quarterback Jalen Hurts helped cover them up with heroics in the second half that resulted in four straight comeback victories. Staff writer for the Eagles, Brooks Kubena
Leonard and Eagles coach Nick Sirianni’s past interactions
with Leonard probably aided in acquiring the linebacker. Sirianni said to media on Wednesday that he “was close with” Leonard during his tenure as offensive coordinator for the Colts from 2018 to 2020. After seeing the Cowboys, Leonard met with the Eagles, and it was anticipated that he would weigh his options over the course of the weekend.
Sirianni stated at the time, “There is obviously a prior relationship there.” “We used to be close when we lived in Indianapolis. I simply believed that skilled players can teach you a great deal. I always felt so much respect for him and it was always a good perspective to talk to him about how he approached the day and how he saw the game as an offensive coach.
