“This is the time we live in, where a player like that can be available, pick his team and be on the field within three or four days,” Jones said. “It’s a unique time for me that he can hit the ground running and be there against us on Sunday. But I wish him the best, he deserves it. He’s had an outstanding career.”
Leonard, a three-time All-Pro, was surprisingly waived by the Colts late last month. He visited the Cowboys last Tuesday and then went to Philadelphia. After the weekend, Leonard decided to sign with the Eagles, who have been ravaged by injuries at linebacker, even worse than the Cowboys, who lost Leighton Vander Esch for the season.
But Jones said during his visit to Leonard that the financial terms of the contract were never discussed.
“No money was ever mentioned,” Jones said. “This was not a financial issue at all. That was not the case in any way. He wanted to go where he thought he had the best opportunity, and again, I respect and appreciate his decision there.”
One reason Jones doesn’t seem too disappointed by the loss of Leonard is the roster adjustment that would be necessary to add him. He stated that adding depth at linebacker will ultimately impact the numbers at other positions.
Ultimately, he wanted Leonard to sign with the Cowboys, but now he’s hoping his team will make him regret the decision later this week.
“He decided on Philadelphia and that’s it,” Jones said. “Let’s do everything we can to make him wish he was on the winning side on Sunday.”
