Indianapolis Colts general manager Chris Ballard met with the media on Tuesday ahead of the team’s first day of training camp.
Ballard offered different statements and insights into questions regarding injuries.
Among the updates, Ballard offered an update on All-Pro linebacker, Shaquille Leonard.
“He has worked extremely hard,” Ballard said. “He has passed the physical, but that does not mean he will be back in full contact. We’ve got a progression in play here.”
Leonard had his second back surgery in November and has been on the mend since. On the surface, not being placed on the PUP (physically unable to perform) list is a positive step in the right direction for Leonard.
Ballard also mentioned there is no true timeline for his return, mostly because he’s dealing with a nerve issue. However, the team has been encouraged about his progress.
“He will start out at practice and pretty much just go through individual, start building his endurance back up. But slowly but surely, we’ll get there. He has worked extremely hard,” Ballard said. “There is really no timeline on exactly when he’ll be completely cleared for contact, but it’s good to get him back – just his presence back on the team, back out in drill work is important for us.”
The overarching question remains, when will he be cleared for contact? Leonard’s status will continue to be something that the team monitors as training camp progresses.