Chargers 2023 roster review: CB Deane Leonard

Deane Leonard will be another valuable special teamer this season.

Training camp is approaching and with a few more weeks of dead time in the NFL offseason, Chargers Wire is documenting each of Los Angeles’ players before it kicks off.

Cornerback Deane Leonard is entering his second season with the Chargers after being selected in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL draft out of Ole Miss.

Leonard’s college career began at the University of Calgary, where he appeared in 23 games, recording 47 tackles, 13 passes defended, and six interceptions.

After transferring, in two seasons with the Rebels, Leonard appeared in 18 games, posting 63 tackles, 14 passes defended, and one fumble recovery.

While he won’t be pushing for a starting job in Los Angeles’ secondary, Leonard should continue to be a special teams ace and provide depth in case of an injury.

Contract (2023): $870,000 base salary, $24,916 prorated bonus, $894,916 cap hit.

Acquired: Leonard was taken by the Chargers with the 236th overall selection in the seventh round of the 2022 NFL draft.

Quote: Cole Topham on Leonard’s special teams upside:

“Leonard’s tape demonstrates a dependable coverage piece and asset in the run game. His tackling form and aggressiveness are prominent and does not let ball carriers drag him for extra yards. He wraps up well and rarely whiffs on his approach.”

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