Washington Commanders Sign 2-Time Super Bowl Champion To 3-Year Deal
The Washington Commanders have made a significant move to strengthen their defense, agreeing to terms with former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal on a three-year, $24.75 million contract. Chenal, a key member of the Chiefs’ recent Super Bowl-winning teams, brings a championship pedigree and a physical presence to the heart of the Commanders’ defense.
Washington Commanders Get Proven Winner
Chenal was an integral part of the Chiefs’ highly praised 2022 draft class, a group credited with providing the young, cost-effective talent necessary to fuel a dynasty. Selected in the third round, Chenal quickly established himself as a reliable and impactful player for one of the league’s top teams. During his four seasons in Kansas City, he helped the franchise secure two Super Bowl championships, gaining invaluable experience on the biggest stage in professional sports. His departure marks the continued dispersal of that vaunted draft class, a testament to the individual success of its members who are now earning significant second contracts across the NFL.
Chenal’s Impact in Kansas City
In his four-year tenure with the Chiefs, Chenal appeared in 65 games, making 44 starts. His statistics reflect his versatile and consistent contributions to Steve Spagnuolo’s defense. He accumulated 218 total tackles, seven sacks, 17 tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles. While not always a full-time starter due to the depth at the linebacker position in Kansas City, his presence was consistently felt.
Beyond his defensive contributions, Chenal was a standout on special teams, logging over 1,000 snaps in that phase of the game. His ability to make game-changing plays was on full display during the 2024 season when he was named Special Teams Player of the Week for blocking a potential game-winning field goal. This well-rounded skill set is precisely what made him an attractive target for the Commanders.
What Chenal Brings to Washington
At just 25 years old, Chenal is entering the prime of his career. He provides the Commanders with a young, physical linebacker who is effective against the run and has demonstrated the ability to pressure the quarterback. His experience in a complex, high-stakes defensive system will be a major asset as Washington looks to elevate its defensive performance.
The contract represents a significant investment by the Commanders and indicates their belief that Chenal is ready for an expanded, full-time role. In Washington, he will likely have the opportunity to be a three-down linebacker, a role he shared in Kansas City. This move provides the Commanders with an immediate upgrade at a key defensive position, adding a player who understands what it takes to compete and win at the highest level. For a team in the process of building a new identity, adding a player with Chenal’s background is a clear step in the right direction.
