The Kansas City Chiefs must undergo some changes this offseason, and one of the most notable shake-ups could involve linebacker Leo Chenal's likely departure. A regular starter and two-time Super Bowl champion, Chenal has been a reliable member of defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo’s unit but may be on his way elsewhere as he approaches free agency.
The Chiefs could move some money around and keep Chenal for next season, but they also need a contingency plan if they can’t make it work. That’s why Kansas City has kept all options available, reportedly meeting with Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez at this week’s scouting combine, according to Arrowhead Corner.
With a potential impact player lurking, the Chiefs could be preparing to say goodbye to Chenal and add some new blood to their defense in 2026.
Jacob Rodriguez Meeting Could Be the End of Leo Chenal’s Tenure with Chiefs
If the Chiefs can’t keep Chenal around, Rodriguez would be a strong target. Part of a Texas Tech defense that includes potential first-round picks David Bailey and Lee Hunter, Rodriguez may have been the biggest star, logging 128 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and a sack.
However, his biggest impact may have come as a turnover machine. A former quarterback, Rodriguez has strong athleticism and led the FBS with seven forced fumbles. He was also strong in coverage with four interceptions and two fumble recoveries, including one that was returned for a touchdown.
The performance helped Rodriguez become just the seventh defensive player to be named a Heisman finalist dating back to 2009, and could be the star power needed to replace a fan favorite in Chenal.
A third-round pick by the Chiefs in the 2022 draft, Chenal promised “violence and physicality” shortly after he was drafted. Those words helped him earn 'The Beast' nickname among Chiefs fans, as he played a key role in the Chiefs’ Super Bowl LVIII victory over the San Francisco 49ers, logging six total tackles and a tackle for loss.
With 218 total tackles, 17 total tackles for loss, and seven sacks during his career, Chenal won’t be easy to replace. But with OverTheCap projecting the Chiefs will be $3.2 million over the salary cap, they may be better served bringing in a cheaper option, such as Rodriguez, using the savings to pursue an upgrade at running back or the defensive line.
It makes it appear that the writing is on the wall for Chenal and could lead to a new face to Kansas City’s defense this offseason.