Chiefs' Leo Chenal Stands Out in Win vs. Ravens

The Kansas City Chiefs got their 2024 season started on the right foot Thursday night with a 27-20 win against the Baltimore Ravens in an AFC Championship rematch.

While the Chiefs had many young players step up and shine on Thursday night, one of their biggest standouts on the defensive side of the ball was linebacker Leo Chenal. Chenal finished the game with seven total tackles, a tackle-for-loss, and two pass breakups, which led the team.

Chenal was all over the field for the Chiefs who needed to bring some speed against Lamar Jackson and the fast-paced Ravens offense. Chenal brought it, as he not only played in coverage but was also Jackson's primary spy throughout the night. Chenal also rushed the passer, and while he didn't finish with a sack, he was able to produce a tackle-for-loss.

After the Chiefs' defense allowed a touchdown on the Ravens' first drive of the game, they were much more disciplined, allowing just 13 more points throughout the rest of the game.

Chenal is entering his third season with the Chiefs after being selected in the third round of the 2022 draft out of Wisconsin. Chenal started 10 games for Kansas City last season, finishing with 65 total tackles and three sacks.

Meanwhile, his pass breakups on Thursday were a new addition to his skillset, as Chenal had just one pass breakup in his prior 18 starts.

Related: Offensive Rookies Shine in Chiefs' 27-20 Win vs. Ravens

The Chiefs take on the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 2 on Sept. 15.