Around the NFL

Washington signing LT Charles Leno to one-year, $5M deal

Published: May 12, 2021 at 12:34 PM

Kevin Patra

Around the NFL Writer

The Washington Football Team has its new left tackle.

NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday that the club is signing former Bears left tackle Charles Leno Jr. to a one-year contract worth $5 million, per agent Ron Slavin.

After selecting Oklahoma State tackle Teven Jenkins in the second round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Chicago released Leno. The move was salary cap related. Cutting Leno with a post-June 1 designation saved the cap-strapped Bears $9 million this season.

Washington quickly pounced.

The 29-year-old left tackle started 93 straight games for the Bears and remains a solid blindside protector. Scooping up Leno is a coup for Ron Rivera's team at this stage in the offseason.

The seven-year pro with one Pro Bowl to his name fills the biggest question on Washington's roster. The weapons are there in Terry McLaurin, Curtis Samuel, Antonio Gibson, et al. The defense will be among the best in the NFL once again with a fierce front and improved secondary. Ryan Fitzpatrick is an upgrade at quarterback. Leno now solidifies the offensive line that had one question mark at left tackle.

Washington drafted Samuel Cosmi in the second round, but with the Leno singing, the rookie will have time to develop before being thrust onto the fold.

On paper, Rivera's club looks primed to defend its NFC East title. No team has won the division in back-to-back years since 2004.

The 2021 schedule is being revealed today. Purchase your tickets to see the action live, here.

Related Content

news

Chiefs GM Brett Veach: Kansas City 'lucky' to have WR Marquise Brown in 2024

After a 2023 season that featured a constant narrative of inconsistent receiving talent for the Kansas City Chiefs, K.C. signed WR Marquise "Hollywood" Brown this offseason. General manager Brett Veach spoke on the signing Friday, including how he fits into an uncertain WR corps.

news

Tillman Scholars to announce pick No. 226 in honor of Pat Tillman

When the No. 226 selection is made on Day 3 of the 2024 NFL Draft in Detroit, it will be made by two members of the Pat Tillman Foundation -- Army veteran Jeremy Glasstetter and Air Force veteran Deborah Trimble, per the Cardinals franchise.

news

Jets GM Joe Douglas still 'open' to trading QB Zach Wilson, but acknowledges he 'is an asset'

Joe Douglas remains open to dealing Zach Wilson, who was given permission to seek a trade this offseason, but the Jets general manager does still see the quarterback as an 'asset' if no trade materializes.

news

Bill Tobin, longtime NFL executive, dies at age 83

Longtime NFL general manager and scout, Bill Tobin, has died, the Bengals announced on Friday. He was 83.

news

NFL news roundup: Latest league updates from Friday, April 19

NFL.com keeps you up to date with all of the latest league news from around the NFL. Visit NFL.com's transaction hub for a daily breakdown.

news

2024 NFL Draft: When and how to watch league's three-day event

The 2024 NFL Draft, which takes place in Detroit from April 25-27, promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. Here's a breakdown for when and how to catch all three days, as well as all the supplemental info you might need for this year's event.

news

Joe Schoen: Darius Slayton's absence from voluntary workouts 'doesn't change anything' about Giants' draft plans

Giants general manager Joe Schoen acknowledged WR Darius Slayton's desire to snag a new deal but dismissed the wideout's absence, noting that workouts at this stage are voluntary.

news

Dan Campbell pushed for Lions' black alternate jerseys to return

Lions team president Rod Wood told reporters Thursday night that head coach Dan Campbell lobbied for the black jerseys to return, fulfilling a deal he they made after winning the NFC North in 2024.

news

Mack Brown on QB Drake Maye's competitive nature: 'He had to fight to get a chicken leg at the table'

North Carolina head coach Mack Brown believes QB Drake Maye has the type of intangibles that will benefit him as he proceeds to the next level in next week's 2024 NFL Draft.

news

Dave Canales on improving Panthers: 'It's about building a great team, and then Bryce (Young) can just do his part'

The Carolina Panthers know they need to improve the situation around Bryce Young, but coach Dave Canales wants to build a team around the quarterback, not for the quarterback. "I think it's not about surrounding Bryce (Young) with great players; it's about building a great team," Canales said.

news

Chargers GM Joe Hortiz doesn't want 'fair trade' to deal No. 5 pick: 'They have to make it attractive for us'

With the draft now only a week away from kicking off in Detroit, front of mind for Joe Hortiz in his first season as general manager of the Los Angeles Chargers is how to best utilize the team's No. 5 overall pick, and the negotiation power that comes with that high-value selection.

news

New-look Lions: Reigning NFC North champions unveil fresh uniforms, including all-black alternates

The Detroit Lions unveiled their re-designed uniforms for the 2024 season on Thursday evening, including a new black-and-blue color rush look and three helmet shells.