General manager Adam Peters was taking some heat from fans on social media for his early approach to the NFL's legal tampering window. There is a long way to go, but the pieces are slowly coming together. And the Washington Commanders' latest reported acquisition has not gone down well with those connected to the team that's losing him.
According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, the Commanders have reached an agreement with linebacker Leo Chenal on a three-year, $24.75 million deal. This came out of nowhere, but it's another example of Washington prioritizing defensive reinforcements for new coordinator Daronte Jones.
This received widespread approval around the league. One Kansas City Chiefs expert only heightened the sense of excitement by revealing just how much he'll be missed by the AFC West club.
Chiefs expert raises excitement about Commanders' latest acquisition
Matt Conner of Arrowhead Addict thought Chenal's decision to join the Commanders would hurt Kansas City. The analyst highlighted the second-level presence's well-rounded skill set and versatility as core strengths that can greatly benefit Washington. He also thought the player was just scratching the surface of what he may be capable of.
"[Leo] Chenal does it all. On special teams, he's a beast who can block kicks and force fumbles. He's a menace against the run and yet he's improved by leaps and bounds in coverage. He blitzes well, and [Steve] Spagnuolo loves to use him as a chess piece in myriad ways. Whoever lands him is going to get far more value than they bargained for, as I think Chenal's best is yet to come."
This is an encouraging assessment. Not for the Chiefs, obviously. But if Conner's thoughts about Chenal prove accurate, the Commanders could have a steal of epic proportions on their hands.
Chenal is young, energetic, and willing to do whatever it takes to help. He's an understated linebacker who goes about his business quietly and effectively. The former Wisconsin standout looks more than ready for increased responsibilities, and Chiefs' defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo has given Jones the perfect blueprint on how to maximize his skill set in a more prominent second-level role.
The Commanders taking the plunge with Chenal all but spells the end of future Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Bobby Wagner's time with the club, but it was time. Peters had to get younger and more explosive. They needed a tone-setter who could become a strong asset across all phases. That's the trajectory Chenal is on, and for the money involved, it was a risk well worth taking.
Based on the reaction coming from Kansas City, the Commanders might be onto something with this one.