Add this to the long list of motivations for Indianapolis Colts linebacker Darius Leonard because he won’t be happy with where he’s sitting in the NFL’s Top 100 players list of 2020.
Despite bursting onto the scene during the last two seasons, putting up historic numbers and breaking narratives, Leonard comes in at No. 50 on the rankings. For reference, San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garropolo was ranked ahead of Leonard.
Here’s what they had to say about Leonard’s ranking at No. 50:
Two seasons, two All-Pro selections for the Colts phenom, as well as seven interceptions, 12 sacks, 19 tackles for loss and 284 tackles. Leonard has already put together quite the resume. It might not be much longer before we’re calling him the best middle linebacker in the NFL.
Despite missing three games due to a concussion in 2019, Leonard still put up incredible numbers. In 13 games, he had 121 tackles (71 solo), five sacks, five interceptions, seven tackles for loss and six quarterback hits. His five interceptions were tied for the second-most in the league while leading all linebackers.
The Maniac has been known as a player with no lack of motivation to be the best player in the NFL, often setting lofty goals for himself. But he’s continuing to keep that fire burning after feeling disrespected in this ranking.
I’m starting to feel what Cam feeling now! Keep waking up this Lion ‼️‼️‼️ I cant wait for this season to start! #maniac
— Darius Leonard (@dsleon45) July 28, 2020
Leonard will be back for the 2020 season hungry to prove this list wrong while continuing his ascension as one of the best linebackers in the NFL.