10 Eagles Who Won't Return Next Season

5. Shaquille Leonard

Shaquille Leonard had been part of the Indianapolis Colts organization for five years entering the 2023 season. He was a year removed from back surgery and his numbers were certainly lower than the Colts were expecting after signing him for five years and almost $100 million in 2021. They chose to cut him and eat the dead cap money rather than keep him on the team.

After being released by Indianapolis in November, Leonard signed a contract to finish his season helping the skidding Eagles limp into the playoffs. Philly believed he would bring a jolt to a defense that was not getting any stops, putting their offense behind the 8-ball early and often.

In five games, he recorded just 1 sack and 23 tackles.

Leonard came in around the same time the Eagles were toying with the leadership on the defensive side of the ball, passing around responsibilities and play-calling duties like a hot potato. He was never really put in a place to succeed with the mess he unknowingly walked into.

It is safe to say Leonard's experience was far less productive than he was hoping for. The Eagles now have Vic Fangio as their defensive coordinator. He brings consistency and a history of success with him to a unit that needs i more than air to breathe.

However, whether the Eagles want Leonard back or not, he may choose to go in a new direction because of the mess he initially walked into.