Adam Peters has a laundry list of objectives he wants to accomplish this offseason. The Washington Commanders need their general manager to get almost every decision right, especially after a five-win campaign that brought more questions than answers about how long this rebuild is actually going to take.
All the excitement at this time of year centers on incoming free agents and draft picks. However, there are some in-house matters that demand Peters' attention before on-field preparations for the 2026 campaign begin. And none is more important than left tackle Laremy Tunsil's contract extension.
Tunsil's trade to the Commanders went much better than expected, which is saying something. He was arguably the team's top performer in 2025, providing outstanding pass protection and bone-crushing run-blocking. Now he wants to be paid with one year remaining on his deal. And make no mistake; the blindside enforcer will make things difficult until he gets his money.
Adam Peters doesn't believe Commanders are on the clock with Laremy Tunsil
Peters has declared his intent to give Tunsil a new deal, which is projected to reset the offensive tackle market. Nothing is imminent despite ongoing discussions. The general manager also doesn't believe there is any deadline attached before things potentially get more complicated.
"But it is really important for us. We've been having good and productive talks with Laremy and his team. We're as motivated as ever to get that done ... I don't think either side wants to drag it on, but I don't think the league year is gonna be a deadline of sorts."Adam Peters via Commanders.com
This invokes memories of wide receiver Terry McLaurin's contract situation this time last year. That saga dragged on for the entire summer before the Commanders cut a deal. Peters cannot do the same with Tunsil, and it seems like this lesson has been taken on board.
There may not be a deadline from Peters' perspective, but the Commanders will not see Tunsil on the field in any capacity again until this situation is resolved. McLaurin showed up briefly before holding out. There will be absolutely no sign of the Ole Miss product unless an extension is agreed upon.
Related: Commanders’ blockbuster Laremy Tunsil trade looks more lopsided by the day
OTAs? Forget about it. Tunsil barely attends those without this hanging over him. Mandatory minicamp and training camp participation will also be a non-starter unless some additional financial security is in place. Time is on the Commanders' side for now, but the clock is ticking.
Tunsil is worth every cent. Offensive linemen tend to keep up their production well into their 30s. There isn't the same projected cliff as a running back or receiver. Considering how exceptional he was during his first season in Washington, there are no signs whatsoever of him slowing down.
The sooner this gets settled, the better. Anything less, and Commanders fans will be pointing the finger squarely at Peters.