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Charles Leno Jr. Retires From NFL With Timed Tribute to Late Daughter

He posted his decision at 2:46 p.m., matching the moment he learned of a 2023 miscarriage, saying his priorities shifted to family and service.

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Feb 10, 2023; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Charles Leno Jr. of the Washington Commanders throws a football with youths during the Walter Payton Man of the Year Event at Bob and Renee Parsons Boys and Girls Club. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-USA TODAY Sports
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Overview

  • Leno announced his retirement on Instagram on Oct. 14, 2025, dedicating the three-page letter to his daughter, Paitynn, and timing it exactly two years after the loss.
  • He wrote that the 2023 tragedy left him "done with football" mentally and emotionally, emphasizing a new focus on being a husband, father and community advocate.
  • The 34-year-old left tackle played 10 NFL seasons with the Bears and Commanders, appearing in 149 games with 141 starts and earning a Pro Bowl selection.
  • He was placed on injured reserve in December 2023 and released in the 2024 offseason, with reports noting he was set for hip surgery and did not sign with another team.
  • Leno praised his wife, Jennifer, as "my rock" and highlighted ongoing community work through their Beyond the Entertainer Foundation, reflecting multiple NFLPA and Walter Payton Man of the Year recognitions.