Leo Chenal WLB Wisconsin: Scouting Report

Height: 6’3’’

Weight: 250

Overall

Leo Chenal is an athletic outside linebacker in Wisconsin’s 4-2-5 defense. In his 3 college seasons, he played in 28 games, starting 17 of them. He was used all over the field but lined up primarily off the ball. He is a very tough player and his high motor will be key to his success at the next level.

Run Game

Chenal is a very good run defender. He does a great job of reading the linemen and diagnosing where the play is going then has the athleticism to get to the ball-carrier. He can sift through the trash to get to the ball, and he has excellent closing speed to make plays in the backfield. He is an excellent tackler and with his motor, he never stops fighting to the football. He has a knack for getting to the ball on nearly every play. He will be a reliable run stopper in the NFL and has the speed to chase down the ball-carrier from sideline to sideline.

Pass Game

In the pass game, Chenal was often used on blitzes but has plenty of experience in coverage as well. As a pass rusher he continues to show his excellent closing speed in getting to the quarterback and his motor allows him to relentlessly fight through blocks to make plays. He had good sack production in college and will continue to make plays on the quarterback in the pros. In coverage, Chenal played primarily in zone coverage, but he has the speed to play in man if needed. In zone coverage, he has very good awareness in reading the quarterback’s eyes and can cover a lot of ground. When the ball is in the air he makes good breaks on the ball and flies to the intended receiver. He has the athleticism and technique to have success in coverage at the next level and combined that with his pass rushing ability, he can dominate on 3rd downs.

Last Word

Chenal projects best as a will linebacker where he can use his speed to play all over the field and be used often against the pass. His performance on the field and his versatility will allow him to be an immediate 3 down player to begin his career and with his pass rushing skills and coverage ability, he can excel on 3rd downs. His athleticism will allow him to make an impact on special teams as well.

One-Liner: Leo Chenal is a high effort, high production player who consistently makes plays against the run and can be an impactful player against the pass with his football IQ in coverage and pass rushing talent.

Grade: 6.7 (Solid Starter on All 3 Downs)

Games Watched: 2021 – Rutgers, Notre Dame, Northwestern

Team Fits: Detroit Lions, Philadelphia Eagles, Cincinnati Bengals