Eagles show ‘increasing interest’ in free agent after injury

Eagles linebacker Zach Cunningham recorded 10 tackles before ultimately being pulled with a hamstring injury midway through the fourth quarter in Philadelphia’s 37-34 win over the Bills on Sunday.

With the fear that the 28-year-old’s injury could linger, the Eagles are taking a closer look at four-time All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard, who announced he was released by the Colts last Tuesday, reported NFL insider Josina Anders of CBS Sports.

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“I’m told the #Eagles now have increasing interest in pursuing free agent LB Shaq Leonard, following the reported hamstring injury to LB Zach Cunningham Sunday, per source,” Anders posted to X (formerly Twitter).

Leonard was considered one of the league’s best linebackers from 2018-2021, but he only played three games in 2022 because he underwent back surgery and aggravated the injury. He also suffered a concussion/broken nose.

The 2018 second-rounder recovered from his injuries and started nine games for the 5-5 Colts this year. He finished with 65 tackles and played 70% of their defensive snaps through 10 weeks— low numbers for his standard.

Leanard spoke openly about his frustrations with his new role with the Colts before being released.

“My patience was kind of thrown out the window,” said Leonard in October, via The Indianapolis Star. “I want to be on the field. If I want to buy a ticket, I can sit in the stands or something.”

If he signs with the Eagles, Leonard will most certainly be on the field as the team is dealing with multiple injuries at the position. Nakobe Dean was placed on the injury reserve for the second time this season because of a Lisfranc sprain to his left foot.

Because of injuries to Dean and now Cunningham, Philadelphia has had to rely on Christian Elliss, Patrick Johnson and rookie Nolan Smith, who hasn’t played much this season. Leonard is an upgrade from any of those players at this time.

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Manuel Gomez may be reached at mgomez@njadvancemedia.com.