Shaq Leonard explains why he picked Eagles over Cowboys; Proving he can still play

Shaquille Leonard chose the Eagles over the Cowboys on Monday and most of his decision centered around head coach Nick Sirianni.

The All-Pro linebacker and former Colts offensive coordinator spent three years together in Indianapolis, and Leonard chose that relationship as the starting point for his career reclamation.

Shaq Leonard: “This is pretty crazy.” pic.twitter.com/wlmvMiGFSV

— Josh Tolentino (@JCTSports) December 6, 2023

On Wednesday, before his first practice in Philadelphia, Leonard spoke about the difficult business decision that was made in Indianapolis while also giving insight into why he chose the Eagles.

On still having something left

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard (53) talks to game official Grantis Bell on Sunday, Oct. 29, 2023, before facing the New Orleans Saints at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

"Of course I was stunned. But this is a business and I respect their decision to move forward. I wish them nothing but the best. Of course, it’s not just proving to Indy that I can still play. I want to prove to myself that I still can play."

— Shaq Leonard on his end in Indy pic.twitter.com/3ZrlEkGb2b

— Dave Zangaro (@DZangaroNBCS) December 6, 2023

Why he chose the Eagles

The Indianapolis Colts Shaquille Leonard (53) gets hyped up for practice between the Indianapolis Colts and the Chicago Bears on Wed. Aug. 16, 2023, at Grand Park in Westfield Ind.

Shaq Leonard on choosing the Eagles pic.twitter.com/HHmQgluCUo

— Brooks Kubena (@BKubena) December 6, 2023

Jersey number

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard (53) warms up Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, ahead of a game against the Carolina Panthers at Bank of America Stadium in Charlotte.

Shaq Leonard will wear No. 50 for the Eagles.

— Zach Berman (@ZBerm) December 6, 2023