The Washington Commanders won their first game of the 2026 season on Sunday with a shocking 33-31 upset over the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. But at one point, the outcome felt secondary.
In the first half of Sunday’s game, linebacker Leo Chenal tackled Seahawks running back Emanuel Wilson. After the play, Chenal was on the ground. Washington’s medical team quickly came to Chenal’s aid, and he remained on the ground for several minutes before being carted off. The Commanders’ entire team surrounded him.
Fans chanted Chenal’s name as he was leaving the field, and he acknowledged them, which was a positive sign.
After the game, head coach Dan Quinn gave the following update on Chenal:
“Got to the hospital. Does have feeling in his
extremities, undergoing further testing as we go through tonight,” Quinn said. “But we’re definitely thinking of him. He’s a great teammate. We love him. So, you know, anytime a guy gets banged up like that, and you’re just thinking of him in full form as much as you can.”
On Monday morning, it was revealed that Chenal fractured a bone in his neck and was undergoing surgery. While he would miss the rest of the season, Chenal was expected to make a full recovery.
Quinn gave the following update during his Monday press availability:
“Leo had surgery this morning, and it went well,” he said. “That’s a big deal. He is a great teammate and has been a really significant addition for us both on and off the field. So, man, that was good news to hear, just a little bit ago.”
That’s certainly terrific news.
Not long after Quinn spoke to the media, Chenal posted messages on his X and Instagram profiles, thanking everyone for their support.
Surgery went well! Thank you all for all the love and support, you don’t know how much it means seeing this much love everywhere ❤️
— Leo Chenal (@lchenal54) September 28, 2026
Chenal is in the first year of a three-year, $24.8 million contract he signed with the Commanders in March. Before the injury, Chenal had recorded 18 tackles, including 2.5 for loss through Washington’s first three games.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders LB Leo Chenal posts heartfelt message after neck surgery
