Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on Shaq Leonard signing with Eagles: ‘It’s just a unique period of time’
Shaquille Leonard has moved from free agency to the center of an NFC East championship fight.
After visiting both teams the week before, Leonard ultimately decided to sign with the
Philadelphia Eagles, one of his archrivals along with the Dallas Cowboys.
He may now start for the Eagles against the Cowboys on Sunday.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones views it as a “unique” circumstance, but he still wishes the three-time
All-Pro linebacker who was let go all the best.
During his weekly appearance on 105.3 The Fan on Tuesday, Jones stated, “We very easily could see him out here against us Sunday.”
“When I think about it, I have to take a step back. These are the times when a guy like him might be
available, choose his side, which he can and does, and be playing in three or four days.
It’s just a special moment in time. Not that it sounds negative in the slightest, I’m not
complaining at all, but I find it unusual that he can start strong and play against us on Sunday.
And it’s a very unusual one at that.
Leonard has quickly gone from a potential Cowboys addition to a possible Cowboys opponent — and for the hated Eagles, no less.
It’s unclear as to why Leonard chose the Eagles, but Jones offered up his take.
“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,” Jones said. “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.”
Leonard, 28, was released by the Indianapolis Colts on Nov. 21 in a move that was surprising to many. A day later, he cleared waivers and shortly after began his journey to find a new squad.
He met with the Cowboys on Nov. 28 and was then off for a visit with the Eagles.
The Cowboys prevailed on Thursday night against the Seattle Seahawks, while the Eagles were walloped Sunday by the San Francisco 49ers. Despite the defeat, or perhaps because of it, Leonard landed with Philly.
A few years ago, Leonard was thought to be the greatest or second-best off-ball back in the game behind Fred Warner of the Niners. However, injuries have decimated Leonard, but his potential and résumé brought two of the NFL’s best teams to inquire about him.
“Certainly, on an individual basis, I wish him the best,” added Jones. “He is deserving of that. His career has been extremely outstanding.”
Naturally, Jones won’t be sending Leonard well wishes if he plays Sunday against the Cowboys and is active.
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