Chargers News: Brandon Staley Raves About Sophomore Cornerback's Progress

How big of a role could the cornerback play in 2023?

We're in week two of training camp, and things are looking good so far. There have been some minor mishaps and players missing some practices, but luckily nothing too serious on that front. 

The Bolts are preparing as best as they can to get ready for their first preseason matchup against their city rivals, Los Angeles Rams. The big-name players will likely sit this one out, giving the young players a chance to prove they can contribute come the regular season. A ton of players have been making a name for themselves and have improved from last season to this season—one other player who has turned heads is young cornerback Deane Leonard. 

Leonard is heading into his sophomore season and could earn a consistent role if he keeps impressing head coach Brandon Staley. 

"That's an area that we've really focused on. He has really good speed. He has good size," Staley said. "I think playing with his back to the ball and identifying his press fundamentals, because he has a lot of good traits to work with."

(via Brandon Staley)

#Chargers DB Deane Leonard with a strong PBU, gaining praise from multiple teammates on the sideline.

— Dan W. (@DanWSports) July 31, 2023

Nice work from Deane Leonard yesterday breaking up a deep ball to Quentin Johnston.

That elite speed RAS is sure helpful!

Full video: https://t.co/jwQJxVYNE3 pic.twitter.com/Zi25pcZcRN

— Tyler Schoon (@tylerjschoon) August 1, 2023

Leonard saw limited time on the field as a starting cornerback. He was mainly in the game as a special teams guy but is making a name for himself on defense. Staley acknowledged it isn't easy to cover the receivers in practice but said Leonard is making an impact.

"As you guys know, he made a really big impact on our team on special teams. Now, we see him as a guy that, at corner, we can continue to develop," Staley added. 'As you guys see out there, to defend this group of receivers that we have to defend, especially down in the red area, it's going to make everybody better."

(via Brandon Staley)

The good thing about Leonard is that he was available for all 17 games in 2022. We could see a lot more of him if he can stay healthy and perform at a high or timely level.