Colts Star LB Darius Leonard Suddenly Decides To Change His Name

Darius Leonard is no more.

The Colts star linebacker, who has gone by Darius Leonard since coming into the league in 2018, informed reporters on Tuesday that he would like to be called Shaquille moving forward, according to Dave Calabro of WTHR.

Leonard explained Tuesday that Shaquille is his middle name and the one that he grew up with.

For 5 years, we’ve called him Darius Leonard. He says his real name is Shaquille and would like to be called that from now on. @WTHRcom pic.twitter.com/bekGt3hVMr

— dave calabro (@calabro13sports) July 26, 2022

Colts’ LB Darius Leonard told reporters today that he now wants to be called “Shaquille”, which is what his family calls him.

So from here on in, he’s Colts’ LB Shaquille Leonard.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 26, 2022

The 26-year-old is among the most talented linebackers in the NFL. A three-time first-team All-Pro and the 2018 NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, the former South Carolina State star tallied 122 tackles last season along with a league-high eight forced fumbles.

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The Colts recently placed Leonard on the active/physically unable to perform list, which will prevent him from getting on the field as training camp begins this week.

The 2018 Defensive Rookie of the Year earned his third All-Pro nod with 122 tackles, four interceptions, and an NFL-leading eight forced fumbles last season.