PITTSBURGH, PA - DECEMBER 27: Darius Leonard #53 of the Indianapolis Colts in action during the game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Heinz Field on December 27, 2020 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

Report: Colts' Leonard undergoes season-ending back surgery

Joe Sargent / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Indianapolis Colts linebacker Shaquille Leonard underwent season-ending back surgery Tuesday, a source told NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

There's optimism that this latest procedure will permanently fix the ongoing issues, Rapoport adds. The star defender is currently on injured reserve.

The 29-year-old was ruled out of last week's win over the Las Vegas Raiders after suffering a setback. He was unable to finish the team's workout Wednesday after experiencing some discomfort, according to interim head coach Jeff Saturday.

Leonard has been dealing with nerve-related issues and underwent a previous back surgery in the offseason. He began the campaign on the PUP list as he worked his way back to health. Leonard made his season debut in Week 4 but suffered a broken nose and concussion following a collision.

The three-time All-Pro was active for three games and started just one in his fifth campaign with Indianapolis. He recorded 11 tackles and one interception.

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