Washington Commanders quarterback Sam Howell will have a new blindside protector Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons. The Commanders downgraded starting left tackle Charles Leno Jr. to out for non-injury-related personal reasons.
Cornelius Lucas will start in Leno’s place.
NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo confirmed after a Twitter user’s post that Leno’s wife, Jennifer, announced on social media she unexpectedly delivered their daughter she was expecting, and she passed away overnight in Atlanta.
Leno had confirmed on Saturday night she traveled to Atlanta to watch her husband play.
Sam Howell enters Sunday’s game as the most-sacked quarterback in the NFL. However, Leno is focused on a far more important thing than a football game.
As for the football game, Lucas is in his fourth season with the Commanders. He started 12 games last season for Washington, but the addition of Andrew Wylie, shufled Lucas back to the swing tackle position.
Lucas has 43 career starts at either left or right tackle, including 27 with Washington. The other 16 were in spots with the Chicago Bears.
In addition to Leno, the Commanders have made cornerback Christian Holmes, defensive end KJ Henry, guard Chris Paul, tight end Curtis Hodges, and wide receiver Mitchell Tinsley inactive for the game.
Offensive tackle Trent Scott is active and will be the swing tackle in Leno’s absence.
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