Whatever the rationale, Shaquille Leonard decided the Eagles were a better fit for him than the Cowboys.
The former All-Pro linebacker took meetings with Philly and Dallas last week before ultimately deciding to join the Eagles for the rest of the season. Leonard hit the market last month after getting cut by the Colts, the only team he had played for, with his snaps on the decline.
It’s unclear what level of involvement Leonard will have with the Eagles. A back injury derailed his 2022 season, and this year he had yet to return to his previous form. But his Eagles debut could come as soon as this Sunday when Philly, poetically, faces the Cowboys in Dallas.
Cowboys owner and GM Jerry Jones offered his reaction to the decision Tuesday in his weekly appearance on Shan & RJ.
“Well, of course, we very easily could see him out here against us Sunday,” Jones said. “I just have to almost step back when I think about man, these are the times we’re in when a player like that could be available and pick his team – which he can and does – and be on the field within three or four days. It’s just a unique period of time. Not in any way – if I sound like I’m complaining, I’m not – but that’s just unique to me to think he can hit the ground running and be out there playing against us Sunday.
“Certainly, on an individual basis, I wish him the best. He deserves that. He’s had a very distinguished career. There was absolutely never any money mentioned, I met with him, had lunch with him and had a good visit with him, but there was never a financial issue at all. So, that wasn’t the case in any way, he apparently wanted to go where he thought he had the best chance. I certainly recognize and honor his decision there. It never was an issue for us regarding our confidence that we’ve got in our linebackers.”