Shaq Leonard’s Stunning Comeback: Will He Ready for Week 1?
Shaquille Leonard, the All-Pro linebacker for the Indianapolis Colts, experienced a challenging 2022 season due to back issues and subsequent surgeries. In spite of the difficulties, the latest updates from Leonard and his training partner suggest a promising outlook for the upcoming season, with Leonard expressing confidence in his return to his previous form.
Leonard’s Injury
During the 2022 season, Leonard played in only three games, with a total of 74 snaps. He attempted to push through his discomfort and lack of strength in his lower left side, but this resulted in worsening his condition. After a second surgery in November, Leonard was placed on injured reserve, ending his season.
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His Rehab and Recovery
However, Leonard’s recovery process since that surgery has been encouraging. He mentioned feeling “tingles” down his left leg, and is focused on intentionally building up his strength. Leonard is confident that he’ll not only be ready for the start of the 2023 season, but also that he’ll be the same player he was over his first four years in the NFL – in which he was named a first-team AP All-Pro three times.
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Will Shaq Leonard Play Week 1?
Leonard’s training partner, free agent safety Logan Ryan, who trains with Leonard five days a week in Tampa, has also offered positive updates. Ryan stated that Leonard is “healthy and looking great,” and fans should be excited about his return.
As of now, both Leonard himself and his training partner seem confident about his readiness for Week 1 of the 2023 season.
