The Indianapolis Colts All-Pro linebacker Darius “Shaq” Leonard missed a lot of time the past two seasons due to back injury. Like most fans, Leonard questioned if he would ever play in the NFL again. During that time, Leonard became a catalyst for the Colts “Kicking the Stigma” campaign. He would later speak out about his own mental health and how he suffered from depression and anxiety.
“Going through all the adversity I’ve been through, being the top level linebacker I am, people think I’m living in high heaven, which is not true. Just going through depression and the other things people go through,” said Leonard.
Back in April, Leonard spoke on his recovery from back surgery. “I’m feeling a whole lot better than what I did at any point of the year last year. I’m moving around a whole lot better, I’ve got more power in the calf. It’s still not where I want to be. Still taking it one day at a time, one step at a time and just maintaining the focus and trying to get one percent better each day.”
On Saturday, August 05, 2023, the Colts announced Leonard will suit up with the starters in a padded practice. As a fan of Leonard, that brought music to my eyes. Leonard instantly looked like his normal self, bringing energy to a defense who desperately needed it last season. “I’m just going out and taking the fear out of making contact,” Leonard said. “I would still say fear just being able to have contact for the first time in a long time, not knowing what result was going to come. It feels good, it feels amazing and I’m just happy to be out there.” Here’s a YouTube video on his return to the practice field.
Leonard continues to suit up with the starters in training camp with no setbacks. On “Behind the Colts: Part 2”, Leonard stated he’s ready and anxious to get back on the field but he’s nervous. This is a promising sign, which raises so many questions; Is “The Maniac” close to a return and will he be ready by week 1 vs the defending AFC champions Jacksonville Jaguars.
