Laremy Tunsil - Commanders OT
When the Washington Commanders secured a bombshell trade for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil, expectations immediately soared. Although things haven't gone according to plan for head coach Dan Quinn's squad this season, general manager Adam Peters' decision to acquire the blindside enforcer was nothing short of a masterstroke.
Tunsil has been phenomenal. He's stonewalled almost everyone in his path through elite pass protection and crushing ability as a run blocker. The former Ole Miss standout is playing at an All-Pro level, but the Commanders' lowly record might prompt voters to cast their attention elsewhere when push comes to shove.
The Commanders got everything they wanted and more from Tunsil. He's made no secret of his desire to get another extension ahead of time this offseason. This won't be cheap — it might even be barrier-breaking at more than $30 million per season — but Peters would be wise to pay up accordingly.
Treylon Burks - Commanders WR
Treylon Burks had far too much pressure on his young shoulders when the Tennessee Titans took him at No. 18 overall in the 2022 NFL Draft. He was the man tasked with filling the void left by A.J. Brown, who was traded to the Philadelphia Eagles. Aside from a few flashes, injuries prevented him from firmly establishing himself with the AFC South club.
When the Titans cut this experiment short in October, the Commanders gave him a lifeline. Injuries to others in the wideout room dictated his involvement almost immediately. He's still trying to find his feet, but his glimpses of promise are doing enough for another commitment this offseason.
Only Terry McLaurin, Luke McCaffrey, and Jaylin Lane are under contract next season. Burks' size, physicality, ability as a blocker, and a flair for the extravagant offer something the Commanders don't have right now. That should be rewarded accordingly when the time comes.
Chris Rodriguez Jr. - Commanders RB
The Commanders might decide to bring in a more dynamic running back at some stage during the 2026 offseason. Much will depend on what those in power think of their current options in the backfield, but Chris Rodriguez Jr. is showing enough growth to warrant another commitment from the franchise next spring.
It's been another rollercoaster campaign for Rodriguez, especially early on. He managed to make the 53-man roster but found himself as a healthy scratch over the first two contests. When Austin Ekeler suffered a torn Achilles, the 2023 sixth-round pick began to impose himself more. As has been the case throughout his career, he's consistently produced when his number is called.
Rodriguez's vision and contact balance have been pleasant surprises this season. He's a restricted free agent, so getting a deal done should be straightforward. And his performance levels warrant another go-around in 2026.