The Dallas Cowboys might just be interested in targeting former All-Pro linebacker Shaquille Leonard, who is being waived by the Indianapolis Colts. 

After all, the Cowboys aren't getting Leighton Vander Esch back for 2023 and they were reportedly seeking linebacker help at the trade deadline even after adding Rashaan Evans to the team. 

But why is Leonard, once a rising star in the NFL, available midseason at 28 years old? I talked to my A to Z Sports colleague and Colts insider Destin Adams. Let me tell you, I was surprised to hear his words of caution. Let's dive in. 

Shaquille Leonard is 'unplayable' versus the pass 

On Leonard's play specifically, Adams claims the Cowboys wouldn't be getting much when defending the pass, especially following the linebacker's potentially worst career game.

"Leonard has been a shell of his old self since returning from injury," Adams told me. "His snap count has taken a big hit this year, and they completely take him off the field for passing down situations because he is unplayable in that area, he's coming off arguably the worst game of his season, quite possibly his career against the Patriots where he looked completely lost on the field and was outplayed by every other LB who touched the field of for the Colts. If a team can get him back to his old self he is a home run signing but the likelihood of that at this stage of his career is unlikely."

Could the Cowboys claim Shaquille Leonard in waivers? 

Every team in the NFL could put in a claim for Leonard but it looks like far from a guarantee that that will happen. The reason why is a hefty price tag. 

"Any team who claims Leonard will owe him the remaining 6 million on his contract for the rest of this season; which is nearly a million a week," explains Adams. "As well as picking up the remainder of his very large contract, while none of it is guaranteed it would force a team to cut him in the offseason anyway to avoid paying it. My prediction is he goes unclaimed on waivers and will sign with a contender as a free agent."

Can they afford to claim him? The answer to that question is probably yes, as every NFL team can manipulate the salary cap in a thousand different ways. However, based on Adams' appreciation of Leonard today, I would bet the Cowboys are going to stay pat. If he does clear waivers and becomes a free agent, I wouldn't be surprised if Dallas takes a flyer on him. 

After all, the Cowboys love to make low-risk, high-reward bets. This certainly fits that bill. 

What does Leonard bring to the table?

If you're reading this, you're probably thinking, why should the Cowboys be interested in an expensive yet unproductive player? Here's Adams' answer: 

"There aren't many better leaders in the NFL or on this planet than Shaquille Leonard. He has a way of motivating players around him and getting them to play at their very best. He will be a positive addition to any locker room in the NFL even if his play doesn't match his leadership ability."

Jerry Jones reveals the true meaning of Cowboys’ Ring of Honor

Not about the best.