2 min read • July 21, 2022
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Indianapolis Colts LB Darius Leonard enters 2022 with an SIC Health Score of a 70. He is one of the best linebackers in the game but recent back surgery could slow him to start the regular season.
The Pro Football Docs have some concern that Leonard’s ability to play sideline-to-sideline when he first returns could negatively affect his play. It is likely he will progressively get better as the regular season heats up.
Leonard underwent the recent back surgery, as the Colts announced, on June 7.
The timing of Leonard's surgery suggested that team doctors picked up on this issue during a season-entry physical. The surgery was likely to repair a disc issue, which would keep the star LB out for about three months, according to the Pro Football Docs.
The Colts are staying hopeful that Leonard could play by Week 1, and luckily for Leonard, he will not miss too much time during offseason activities. However, there is concern that an over-eager return could impact his play, as he will need time to re-acclimate after the surgery.
Leonard also dealt with an ankle injury last season. According to Zak Keefer, the ankle injury lingered in part because of a calf issue. The Pro Football Docs do not believe these injuries will affect Leonard in 2022.
The All-Pro has tallied over 300 tackles, 15 sacks and 11 interceptions in his career so far. The Colts are expecting to be Super Bowl contenders with new QB Matt Ryan, a strong offensive line and stellar running game.
The team also leans heavily on their defense, and there is no question Leonard has been the captain of it for the last 3-4 years.
The Pro Football Docs believe he can still be that but will need time to re-adjust after rehabbing from surgery.
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