Overview

• Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard, a three-time first-team All-Pro, has recently been playing a reduced role on the team due to continued recovery from two complicated back surgeries to repair nerve damage and unusual lack of 'impact plays'.
• Despite his recovery and readiness for more play time, Leonard's coaches maintain their decision, citing their desire to see more game-changing plays from him, something for which he had been previously known.
• Leonard's frustration has been growing since his role didn't expand even in the absence of injured starting middle linebacker Zaire Franklin, leading him to publicly voice his objections.
• Although Leonard argues that he's back to his pre-injury form, his coaches believe that full recovery might take more time, thus indicating a disagreement about his current performance level.
• For now, coaches have favored Leonard's teammate E.J. Speed over him, primarily due to Speed's range and playmaking ability, thus reducing Leonard's playing time.