Commanders to release left tackle Charles Leno Jr.

Commanders move on from veteran left tackle Charles Leno Jr.

The Washington Commanders began clearing more salary cap space on Friday by releasing veteran left tackle Charles Leno Jr.

Leno, 32, signed with Washington in May 2021 after the Chicago Bears released him. Leno spent the first seven years of his career in Chicago. He made the Pro Bowl in 2018 with the Bears. A seventh-round pick from Boise State in the 2014 NFL draft, Leno appeared in 102 games with 94 starts for Chicago.

In Washington, Leno initially signed a one-year deal. However, late in the 2021 season, he signed a three-year extension. In three seasons with the Commanders, Leno started all 47 games he played. He did not miss a game during his first two seasons but missed the final four games of the 2023 season.

According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, Leno is scheduled for hip surgery next week.

Leno was a steady presence for Washington’s offensive line, which struggled overall. Leno was active in the community, participating in multiple charities, and was a finalist for the Walter Payton NFL Man of the Year award.

Leno’s wife,  Jen, took to X to thank the Washington community.