One of the moves made by the Washington Commanders during free agency was to sign linebacker Leo Chenal from the Kansas City Chiefs. Coming off his rookie contract, Chenal has already been part of two Super Bowl-winning teams. And it’s not like he just rode the bench and got rings; no, Chenal appeared in all 17 games for the Chiefs for his first three seasons. He missed the final three games of the 2025 season with a shoulder injury, but appeared in all 14 games before that.
Chenal is part of Adam Peters’ desire to make the defense younger and faster. He recently appeared on the ‘Next Man Up’ podcast with Bryan Colbert Jr. to discuss what his role with the Commanders will look like.
First, Chenal is asked about his conversations with the Commanders prior to signing. Chenal talked about his ability to play both on and off the ball, and either inside or outside, and that the Commanders were encouraging and welcoming of that aspect, which made their offer more attractive. Then, Colbert asks Chenal where he is most comfortable on the field.
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“You know, I definitely have the most reps off the ball,” Chenal said. “And I want to continue to grow on the ball, if I can, as a pass rusher. It was great learning from guys; Chris Jones, George Karlaftis, Charles, we got Charles Omenihu, Chuck, over here, so they were great mentors to me. They love the game, and so I want to keep building, especially on-the-ball pass rush because I’ve done middle of the field, off the ball, rushing on guards, rushing on running backs, and that’s where I definitely excel, so let’s continue to build that and continue to make plays in the pass game as well.”
Chenal was a standout linebacker at Wisconsin, earning Big Ten Linebacker of the Year as a junior in 2021. Then, he went on to play and be an impactful part of a Chiefs team that won back-to-back Super Bowls. Now, he finds himself as a member of the Washington Commanders, and he’s excited to get started.
Along with K’Lavon Chaisson and Odafe Oweh, Chenal wants to be part of the team that turns things around in Washington. With his experience and versatility, his impact will undoubtedly be felt in 2026.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Leo Chenal ready to help everywhere
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