Colts' Leonard to return for Week 8 vs. Commanders

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard will suit up for Sunday's matchup against the Washington Commanders, but he will be on a pitch count, head coach Frank Reich announced Friday, according to Fox Sports' Ben Arthur.

Jordan Schultz, theScore's NFL insider, was the first to report that the franchise was optimistic that Leonard would return to action in Week 8.

Leonard hasn't played since Week 4 and has been listed on the injury report with nose and back ailments and a concussion.

The three-time Pro Bowler made his first appearance in a Week 4 loss to the Tennessee Titans after opening the year with a back injury. His 2022 debut was short-lived after he suffered a concussion in that contest.

Leonard was a full participant in practice on Wednesday and Thursday heading into Sunday's game against the Commanders.

The Colts made a major quarterback change this week, with Sam Ehlinger taking the starting job from veteran Matt Ryan for the remainder of the season. Indianapolis sits second in the AFC South at 3-3-1.