EmailPrintOpen Extended ReactionsThe Washington Commanders filled a glaring need on defense Tuesday, agreeing to a three-year deal with former Kansas City Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal, a source confirmed to ESPN.Chenal will make $24.75 million, according to NFL Network.Chenal becomes the fourth defensive player Washington has added during the legal tampering period, joining end Odafe Oweh, tackle Tim Settle and cornerback Amik Robertson. The Commanders finished with the 27th scoring defense and were last in yards this past season.They wanted to improve their speed in the front seven, and Chenal provides them with someone considered a strong blitzer -- a key attribute in new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones' system.Bobby Wagner started at linebacker the past two seasons but remains unsigned. The Commanders also have Frankie Luvu and Jordan Magee, both of whom are expected to play key roles.Chenal, 25, grew into being one of the Chiefs' best rotational defenders, a linebacker known for his strength and tenacity to limit an opposing team's rushing attack. Last season, he recorded his first career interception, an impressive highlight against Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson. He also recorded 58 tackles, five quarterback hits, two sacks and two pass breakups.One of Chenal's best traits is his versatility. Longtime Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo at times, depending on certain matchups, utilized Chenal as an edge rusher, a two-stance defensive tackle, a blitzer and a spy, a role he excelled in against Jackson and Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen.The Chiefs selected Chenal with the 103rd pick in the 2022 draft. He proved to be a prominent member of one of the franchise's most impressive draft classes, helping them win consecutive Super Bowls. In 10 playoff games, Chenal recorded 31 tackles, one sack and one forced fumble, a turnover that occurred in Super Bowl LVIII.In four seasons, Chenal never played more than 53% of the Chiefs' defensive snaps. But he contributed to the team's success in those four years by having 16 quarterback hits, seven sacks and six pass breakups.NFL reporter Jordan Schultz first reported news on Chenal's agreement with the Commanders.ESPN's Nate Taylor contributed to this report.
