NFL analyst not a fan of Commanders' $24.75 million addition: 'Odd fit' originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
NFL free agency hasn't even officially started yet but names are already flying off the board.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementTeams can agree to terms with players, but pen can't officially be put to paper until Wednesday. However, as is the case every season, news breaks before the deals are signed and fans find out where players are going.
The Washington Commanders are a team who is entering free agency with plenty of money to spend and plenty of holes to fill. On Tuesday, it was revealed that the team agreed to give linebacker Leo Chenal a three-year deal worth $24.75 million.
On the surface, this deal makes sense. The Commanders couldn't possibly rely on Bobby Wagner again in 2026, and Chenal is a younger, faster option at middle linebacker. That doesn't mean everybody loves this signing, though, as some analysts think the former Chief is an "odd fit" in Washington.
Bleacher Report's NFL staff gave grades to all the major signings from Tuesday. For the Chenal signing, the staff gave the Commanders a C grade. Regarding the move, the following analysis was given:
The 25-year-old started 12 games last year for the Chiefs, logging 58 total tackles and adding two sacks. Over four years, he has started 44 games.
With Bobby Wagner a free agent, the Commanders have a potential need at off-ball linebacker. But in many respects Chenal is the same player as Frankie Luvu—a SAM linebacker better-suited to stuffing the run and rushing the passer than playing in coverage.
That odd fit knocks some of the shine off this deal, although Chenal is a good player.
The Commanders need help over the middle of the field as they gave up far too many passing yards last season. Wagner is still a solid tackle and run defender, but it's clear he's lost a step in pass coverage.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementAs the BR staff mentioned, though, Chenal doesn't exactly flourish in pass coverage either. It seems like the Commanders just got a younger version of Frankie Luvu rather than a true pass-defending middle linebacker.
The good news is that Chenal isn't breaking the bank. The Commanders still have plenty of money left to make another addition, at only 25, Chenal could still get better.
In 2025, Chenal played in 14 games and racked up 58 tackles, two tackles for loss, two sacks, and one interception. The linebacker may not be the best in coverage, but he will improve the run defense and can also rush the passer.
It won't be surprising if the Commanders add more to the linebacker room. The team has a top 10 pick in the NFL draft and have frequently landed a linebacker in mock drafts.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMore NFL news:
Bills urged to pull of big trade for star receiver
Cardinals predicted to draft new QB for Mike LaFleur
Tyler Shough needs more weapons in 2026
Titans predicted to add solid defender for new defensive scheme
Could Chiefs draft elite running back in 1st round?
Mike McCarthy may not want Aaron Rodgers back
