Shaq Leonard shares special moment with Colts fans during Sunday's game vs. Bucs

Colts honor linebacker Shaquille Leonard with emotional tribute at Week 12 game after releasing him, thanking him for contributions.

The Indianapolis Colts paid tribute to veteran linebacker Shaquille Leonard during their Week 12 game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Just five days after being released by the team, Leonard was honored for his six seasons with the franchise.

Sitting in a suite at Lucas Oil Stadium, Leonard watched a video tribute that thanked him for his contributions to the Colts. The three-time Pro Bowler was all smiles as he watched the tribute alongside his wife, Kayla, and their two daughters.

During his time with the Colts, Leonard made a significant impact on the field. In 2018, he was named the AP Defensive Rookie of the Year after leading the NFL with 163 tackles. He also received three Pro Bowl nods and multiple All-Pro honors in his first four seasons, amassing over 500 tackles.

In 2021, Leonard signed a five-year, $99.25 million contract extension, making him the highest-paid outside linebacker in the league. However, injuries limited him to just 12 games over his last two seasons, including only three in the 2022 campaign. Before being released, Leonard registered 65 tackles.

Before the Colts' tribute, Leonard penned a heartfelt note to the team's fans. "These past six years have been incredible! Through the good times and the bad times, y'all stood by my side," Leonard wrote. "I apologize for not bringing that trophy back to the 317. The energy at Lucas Oil has been nothing but amazing and I thank you for every memory."

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