Jerry Jones Has Lengthy Comment on Shaq Leonard Ditching Cowboys for Eagles
![Jul 29, 2023; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones speaks during training camp opening Jul 29, 2023; Oxnard, CA, USA; Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones speaks during training camp opening](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_crop,w_8001,h_4500,x_0,y_53/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/images/ImagnImages/mmsport/181/01hgx7v8qcj0ym8m3hfs.jpg)
Though the Dallas Cowboys are winners of four straight games, they ended up losing on Monday, as their pursuit of former free-agent linebacker Shaquille Leonard fell short. Leonard chose to sign with the Philadelphia Eagles despite Dallas' clear interest in the three-time Pro Bowler, giving the Cowboys even more motivation ahead of these teams' rematch on Sunday.
On Tuesday, owner Jerry Jones addressed Leonard's decision with a lengthy comment.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on @1053thefan on veteran free agent LB Shaq Leonard signing with the Eagles instead of the Cowboys: “We could very easily see him out there against us Sunday. … Certainly on an individual basis wish him the best. There was absolutely never a dollar,…
— Jon Machota (@jonmachota) December 5, 2023
Jones told 105.3 The Fan he wishes Leonard "the best" following his choice. Dallas' owner made sure to note there was "never a financial issue" that prevented his team from adding Leonard as well. He also said there's no lacking confidence in his squad's current linebacker groups, so he's not overly stressed about failing to sign the former All-Pro.
It's no surprise to see Jones unbothered by missing out on Leonard. Coming out with a bitter statement on the pursuit gone wrong would not only be a bad look, but it'd also make his current LBs feel like they're not valued, even if they don't have the same resume as the veteran.
Barring any last-minute breakups heading into Week 14, this is the roster the Cowboys will likely use to compete for a Super Bowl. As a result, it's better to instill confidence in them, than harp on a free-agent what-if.
Jones and Mike McCarthy's coaching staff seem to have plenty of trust in the current linebackers, so now it's on this collection of players to prove them right. Perhaps Jones' optimistic comments about this group in the wake of Leonard's signing will give them a boost to finish out the year strong.
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