David Chao, MD
2 min read • August 11, 2022
Posted in
Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard reportedly does not have a set return date after his June 7 back surgery, but the team does expect him to play this season. Leonard will enter the season with an SIC Health Score of a 70.
The Pro Football Docs reported the surgery was likely to repair a disc issue, which typically keeps linebackers out for about three months.
It would be asking a lot of the All-Pro LB to acclimate and rehab in time for the opener, as back surgery really limits what an athlete can do in the short-term.
The June surgery would have been done earlier but it appeared Colts team doctors picked up on the issue during a season-entry physical. This is no fault of the medical staff, these issues happen and it’s up to the coaching staff and doctors to think on their feet to help the team win.
The Colts are playing it safe and smart with the captain of their defense by not rushing a return. He is a proven player who is better off having time to fully rehab and get into playing shape. An over-eager return could affect his play in a negative fashion and hurt the team.
Leonard could still return early in the season if his rehab is going as planned. He also dealt with an ankle injury last season. According to reports, the ankle injury lingered in part because of a calf issue. The Pro Football Docs do not believe these two specific injuries will affect Leonard in 2022.
The All-Pro has tallied over 300 tackles, 15 sacks and 11 interceptions in his four-year career.
Written by David Chao, MD
