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John Keim, ESPN Staff Writer
The Washington Commanders have told left tackle Charles Leno Jr. they are going to release him, a source confirmed, creating more room on the salary cap — and adding to their list of needs.
Leno started 47 games the past three years for Washington, but his release will save the team $7.28 million in cap space, or $11.78 million if he is designated a post-June 1 cut. The Commanders, after the move, will have about $85 million to spend, currently the second most in the NFL. In addition to free agency, the team also must account for a rookie salary cap pool of around $9 million.
Leno will undergo hip surgery next week, a source said.
Washington signed Leno in 2021 after Chicago released him following the draft.
The Bears picked Leno in the seventh round of the 2014 draft and he became a full-time starter at left tackle for the final 13 games of the 2015 season. Leno started every game for the next seven years, including his first two in Washington. He missed four games this past season, including three because of the hip injury.
Washington owns five picks in the top 100 of the draft and will look to fortify its offensive line. The Commanders’ primary starting left guard, Saahdiq Charles, will be a free agent and the starting center, Nick Gates, was benched last season, though he previously played for new line coach Bobby Johnson with the New York Giants. The Commanders could free up an additional $6.54 million in cap space if they release tight end Logan Thomas, who turns 33 in July.
They have holes at quarterback, defensive end, cornerback and linebacker.
The NFL Network first reported Leno’s release.