Deane Leonard

Career StatsF

Year	Team	GP	INT	PD	Tkl
Career		47	—	6	46
2025		8	0	0	5
2024		11	0	3	8
2023		11

Current Contract

Contract Value Index (CVI)

The Chargers secured solid value with Deane Leonard's one-year, $2.0M deal, earning a C CVI that reflects smart risk management for an unproven commodity. At $2.0M AAV, Leonard slots into the lower tier of cornerback salaries, which appropriately matches his unproven performance profile — the Chargers aren't betting heavily on potential while still addressing depth needs in their secondary. The one-year structure with $1.4M guaranteed creates minimal long-term risk while giving Leonard a legitimate opportunity to prove himself in a defensive system that has maximized value from lesser-known defensive backs. This contract represents the sweet spot for developmental players: enough guaranteed money to show organizational commitment without handcuffing the franchise if Leonard doesn't pan out. The Chargers continue their methodical approach to building depth, using low-cost, short-term deals to identify potential contributors rather than overpaying for established veterans, and Leonard's deal exemplifies that philosophy perfectly.

Performance Analysis

Deane Leonard earns an F for the Chargers at cornerback, a player who has been unable to compete at the NFL level in coverage. Leonard has been beaten by receivers consistently and does not have the technique or athleticism to recover. Los Angeles's secondary has needed help, and Leonard has not been able to provide any. His rare defensive appearances have been negative, and he has been confined to a minimal special teams role. The Chargers need better depth at corner, because Leonard is not a viable option even in an emergency.

Fan Sentiment

A solid, low-risk retention of a versatile defensive back with special teams value. Multiple headlines confirm reporters view this as a sensible continuity signing, not a splashy move. Leonard's special teams contributions alongside Josh Harris signal real roster utility beyond depth. Fans are moderately pleased, mainly relieved the Chargers kept a reliable core special teamer intact. Leonard projects as a steady contributor but won't move the needle on the defensive depth chart.