Early Wednesday, it was reported Washington was looking to lock up left tackle Charles Leno to a multi-year extension. John Keim of ESPN had the original report on his podcast.
By Wednesday night, Washington and Leno had agreed to a three-year contract extension worth $37.5 million, per Mike Garofolo of the NFL Network.
The #WashingtonFootball Team and LT Charles Leno have agreed to a three-year, $37.5 million extension, sources tell me and @RapSheet. Released by the #Bears in May, Leno found a new home, played well and now cashes in for the second time in his career.
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) January 6, 2022
Leno’s wife, Jen, also confirmed the news via Twitter.
Breaking News: The Leno Fam is staying in Washington 🤪 Source: Me
— Jen Leno (@jennifermleno72) January 6, 2022
Washington made an outstanding move to get this deal done before finishing the regular season. Now, Washington can look to re-sign RG Brandon Scherff and RB J.D. McKissic, who both should be priorities. Re-signing Scherff will be tricky, though, as he’s coming off two franchise tags, just turned 30 and misses several games per season.
Leno signed with Washington back in May after the Chicago Bears released him in a cost-cutting move. Leno has played in every game this season, stabilizing the left tackle position. Washington can now cross left tackle off the list of needs in the offseason.
Washington’s top priorities are finding a long-term quarterback and reaching a contract extension with wide receiver Terry McLaurin. Leno’s signing allows Washington to focus on McLaurin next.
Leno is the third key Washington starter signed to an extension in the past six months, joining defensive tackle Jonathan Allen and tight end Logan Thomas.