The Chiefs release offensive starters Logan Thomas and Charles Leno Jr. ahead of free agency

Washington’s leaders parted ways with starters Logan Thomas and Charles Leno Jr. Both players will now get a head start on testing the open market before the official start of free agency.

Thomas, 32, is coming off his best season since 2020. He caught 55 pa*ses for 496 yards and four touchdowns. Thomas was instrumental in the Commanders’ upset NFC East title in 2020. He has 219 receptions for 2,002 yards and 16 touchdowns while playing for the Cardinals, Bills and Commanders.

Leno, a former seventh-round pick, made the Bears’ roster as a rookie in 2014. He became a full-time starter in 2015 and was named to his first Pro Bowl in 2018 while helping the Bears capture the NFC North division crown.

Leno, 32, did not miss a start (or game) from 2016 to 2022. He missed four games last season and was placed on injured reserve late in the season with a calf injury.

Both players enter what should be a competitive free agent market. Hunter Henry, Jonnu Smith, Dalton Schultz and Mike Gesicki are among the tight ends who are also expected to be available at the start of free agency. Tyron Smith, Duane Brown, Cornelius Lucas and Donovan Smith are the other left tackles scheduled to be available on March 13.