Three full weeks since the start of NFL free agency, the Washington Commanders should be close to finished adding new veterans to their 2026 roster. All in all, general manager Adam Peters got himself a haul.
Edge rushers Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson, tight end Chigoziem Okonkwo, and running back Rachaad White are the headliners. Washington brought back a pair of old friends in defensive tackle Tim Settle Jr. and wide receiver Dyami Brown. They also filled in additional holes with some impressive depth.
Most importantly, Peters didn't go big-name hunting as he has in the past. He went for emerging talents who can perform beyond their contract value, while making an impact on the field that doesn't necessarily show up in the highlight reel. And if you're looking for a diamond-in-the-rough candidate from this class, look no further than Leo Chenal.
Leo Chenal can do a little bit of everything for the Commanders' revamped defense
Coming over from the Kansas City Chiefs, Chenal is an intriguing player with a versatile skill set. In an interview with Full Command's Bryan Colbert Jr., the Wisconsin product discussed what he could bring to Washington.
"Whether I can be in the middle of the field off the ball, a weak side linebacker, whether I need to be on the ball... whatever it is, I can do it. (Washington) was very encouraging and welcoming of that, and that made it very attractive."
Throughout his four years in the league, Chenal has scraped and clawed to find consistent snaps on a Super Bowl-caliber defense. He's been a role player for the Chiefs who has additionally contributed on special teams, and he's made an impact whenever his number has been called.
Chenal should project to start in Washington, alongside Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee, but he might move around the field a bit. He figures to be a key utility guy in Daronte Jones' scheme, especially if the new coordinator ends up using more 3-4 sets than his predecessor, Joe Whitt Jr.
Most importantly, Chenal boasts an open mind and a positive attitude. He knows what he's being brought to Washington to do. He's not going to make an All-Pro team, but he will do all the little things to help make the defense better.
The value of a player like Chenal cannot be overstated. As long as he delivers on his promises, the Commanders should have themselves both a bargain of a contract, as well as a quick fan-favorite.