3 Commanders players that didn’t get enough credit in 2022
By Dean Jones
Charles Leno Jr. – Commanders OT
Much has been made about the inconsistent production across the offensive line. This unit was a constant source of failure and something opposing defenses exploited almost at will, which made things difficult for whoever was under center during yet another quarterback carousel endured by the Washington Commanders in 2022.
Despite these lackluster performance levels overall, one veteran did manage to emerge with some credit. Charles Leno Jr. wasn’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but it’s unfair to put him in the same category as those who vastly failed to meet even modest objectives.
The former seventh-round pick out of Boise State was an ever-present on the blindside, featuring in 1,189 snaps. Leno did concede eight sacks and four penalties, but the lineman’s creditable 71.6 grade from Pro Football Focus is a strong testament to his consistency while all around him crumbled.
Washington has set about remaking their offensive line this offseason. Nick Gates and Andrew Wylie are two solid veteran additions, and it would be a shock if the Commanders didn’t use one of their opening three picks in the draft on a capable college prospect with Day 1 starting potential.
Despite this, the Commanders seem intent on moving forward with Leno on the blindside. Based on last season, there’s every chance he can improve with better options around him.