Shaquille Leonard Fantasy Overview

The Eagles have agreed to a one-year deal with LB Shaquille Leonard. That gives the veteran LB a strong opportunity to reach the starting lineup. Philly already has LB Nakobe Dean (foot) on IR and missed LB Zach Cunningham (hamstring) in Sunday's loss to the 49ers. That left Nicholas Morrow as the position's only full-timer and Christian Elliss next at 75% snap share. We'd guess that opportunity was a key to Leonard choosing the Eagles, and we'll watch for word on his immediate role. Of course, Leonard hit the open market in part because his performance -- and fantasy production -- lagged well short of past seasons in Indianapolis. So don't get too excited about the veteran in your IDP league. But he's OK to pick up in deeper formats.

The Colts have waived LB Shaquille Leonard. The veteran LB's playing time has been down vs. previous seasons, but he played at least 69% of the snaps in seven of his nine appearances -- including Indy's last game. Leonard played poorly in that contest, though. And for the season, Pro Football Focus has him at the highest missed-tackle rate of his career. Leonard still figures to catch on elsewhere -- likely after he clears waivers so that the new team doesn't have to pay the rest of his sizable contract. We'll see whether the 28-year-old can land somewhere with a path to full playing time. His departure should elevate E.J. Speed to No. 2 LB behind MLB Zaire Franklin.

The Colts have downgraded LB Zaire Franklin to doubtful for Sunday's game against the Panthers for the knee injury that kept him out of practice all week. That should leave Shaquille Leonard and E.J. Speed as the top two LBs for Indy in this game. Check our Week 9 LB rankings to see how high each has risen.

The Colts have ruled LB Shaquille Leonard (groin) and Edge Kwity Paye (concussion) out for Sunday's game against the Titans. Leonard has fallen way down our rest-of-season IDP rankings and is droppable in many leagues. Paye's absence comes as no surprise after concussion symptoms arose after Week 4. E.J. Speed has passed Leonard in regular playing time and becomes a more attractive option with Leonard out. Paye's absence leaves snaps for Samson Ebukam and Dayo Odeyingbo.