Former Commanders lineman Charles Leno Jr. steps away from NFL on anniversary of family tragedy

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For the past decade, much of Charles Leno Jr.’s focus has been on the NFL. As the offensive lineman moves into the next chapter of his life, he is now turning his attention to his loved ones.

On Tuesday, the former Washington Commanders offensive lineman cited wife Jennifer Leno's miscarriage in his retirement announcement. Tuesday also marked two years since the Leno family lost their daughter Paitynn.

"On October 14, 2023, my wife Jennifer and I experienced the most unimaginable heartbreak. We lost our precious daughter, Paitynn — our fourth baby girl," the 34-year-old wrote in a statement posted to Instagram.

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Charles Leno Jr. of the Washington Commanders is introduced before a game against the Buffalo Bills at FedExField Sept. 24, 2023, in Landover, Md. (G Fiume/Getty Images)

"That day changed everything for me. It changed the way I see life, the way I carry myself, and most of all, it changed what matters most to me."

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Leno added that he came to the realization that his heart could no longer be fully committed to the game he once loved.

"I knew then that I was done with football," he continued. "Not physically, but mentally and emotionally. My priority, my passion, my purpose had changed. My heart now belongs fully to my family. And I knew one day, when the time was right, I'd make it official."

Charles Leno Jr. of the Washington Commanders reacts against the