Quick AC compressor question

If a compressor is leaking, does that mean that the internal seal has already disintegrated and circulated through the system (ala black death)?



I'm about to replace my compressor and receiver/dryer with new items. The factory compressor was leaking and starting to howl when active, I assumed this was because it was running low on freon or the bearings were worn out. I've stopped running it completely to avoid it seizing or grenading and spreading junk to the other components.



But, I'd like some reassurance that this hasn't already happened.