The Washington Football Team wants to bring back left tackle Charles Leno Jr. According to ESPN’s John Keim, Washington has already reached out to Leno on a new contract. While there is mutual interest, the process is described as “slow-moving” per the Washington Post’s Nicki Jhabvala.
Leno signed a one-year, $4 million deal with Washington in May two weeks after he was released by the Chicago Bears.
Leno’s season didn’t start off on a good foot. His missed block in the season opener against the Los Angeles Chargers led to a big hit that knocked out quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick for the season with a hip injury.
However, Leno settled in and has been a cog on the left side of Washington’s offensive line. He has started in all 16 games this season, playing on 99% of Washington’s offensive snaps.
In 1,062 snaps, Leno has allowed six sacks and drawn one holding penalty, according to Pro Football Focus.
Locking in Leno would be a huge plus for Washington. Depending on the deal, could provide them much-needed stability along the left side of their offensive line.
Rookie Sam Cosmi has seemingly locked down the right tackle position. Center Chase Roullier is expected to fully recover from a fractured fibula for next season.
Washington will have to address the guard positions. Right guard Brandon Scherff will be a free agent after being franchise tagged back-to-back seasons. Meanwhile, Washington has a potential out from left guard Ereck Flowers to avoid paying him a non-guaranteed $10 million in 2022.
At the age of 30, Leno still has productive years in front of him. If a deal is reached, Washington will finally find a suitable replacement for Pro Bowl talent Trent Williams, who traded in 2020.
