Charles Leno’s reason for re-signing is exactly why fans love him

Between announcing a rebrand, having to bring in another new quarterback, possessing ample cap space to spend in free agency and needing to rebound in the draft after an uninspiring outing in last year’s showcase, the Washington Football Team is facing a make-or-break offseason.

With a huge free agent list, Washington will have to decide who’s worth a new extension and whom they’re willing to let walk.

In a collective sigh of relief for fans, the front office crossed off what we believe was the second-biggest question mark of the upcoming offseason when they signed Charles Leno to a three-year, $37.5 million extension.

Between Leno reminding the fan base that he’s one of the best left tackles in the league and the impact he’s had both in the locker room and local community, this was really a no-brainer decision for Washington.

However, can the same be said for Leno?

Actually, yes. Yes it can. In his first interview since the deal was announced, Leno explained why he committed to Washington for the long haul.

Charles Leno’s reason for re-signing with Washington encapsulates why the fan base loves him so much.

If it’s even possible, his answer will make you love him even more, though his celebrations were put on hold for a minor emergency.

"“It felt good,” Leno told the media on Friday about the deal getting done. “Well, it didn’t feel that good. I think I had to go change a diaper right after that, so it wasn’t the greatest moment.”"

What’s that we said about Leno making an impact off the field? In all seriousness, nobody would’ve blamed the 2018 Pro Bowler if he rejected Washington’s attempt to re-sign him before the end of the season.

At just 30 years old, Leno likely would’ve had multiple teams vying for his services in free agency. In the second chapter of his career, it would’ve been easy for him to hit the open market and sign to the highest bidder. It happens every year with players who outperform small one-year deals.

But money isn’t everything to Leno.

"“You want to be with the team that wants you,” Leno added. “This is the team that sought after me. I know there could’ve been options out there, but I took this one because I’ve got faith in the direction we’re going. Faith is believing without seeing. It may look like this year was not the best year, but I definitely have faith in the direction we’re going.”"

So, what makes Leno so assured about where Washington is headed?

"“It starts with the head coach. The things he preaches every single day is basically control what you can control and that’s something I firmly believe in.”“Also, just the pieces that we have, the roster that we have,” he continued. “Not only with the talent that we have, but just the fight that our team shows. Those are traits, those are characteristics that you want in your team.”"

Anyone else ordering a No. 72 jersey after reading these quotes? It’s simply impossible to give a better answer than this.

Leno is everything a team could want in a left tackle. He’s the epitome of consistent, a willing (and proven) leader, loyal and humbled to the fact Washington gave him a chance when the Bears kicked him to the curb.

It turns out you can add marketing to Leno’s resume, because he managed to paint Washington as an ideal destination with these comments. It’s not often you can call a contract extension a win before it’s even kicked in, but we feel comfortable jumping the gun and calling this a win-win for both parties already.