The Washington Commanders are throwing their full support behind Brandon Coleman in the wake of five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil's devastating long-term injury. And even though it will be an obvious downgrade, offensive coordinator David Blough outlined precisely why confidence is so high in the third-year pro.
Blough is bullish about Coleman's chances to man the blindside effectively until Tunsil is ready to return. In particular, the rookie play-caller highlighted his athletic gifts, explosiveness, and the character to fight back in the face of adversity as traits that should be of significant use.
Commanders' confidence in Brandon Coleman is evident, and it must be repaid
And for the sake of Washington's aspirations in 2026, Blough better be right on the money in his assessment.
"His speed, athleticism just flashes every time you turn that film on. We've seen a young man grow from having to [make] all those starts as a rookie and the different experiences last year. He has demonstrated everything that we're looking for to protect that side."
Losing Tunsil is a blow; that's not up for discussion. But it's also worth remembering that the Commanders have won with Coleman on the edge before.
The 2024 third-round pick out of TCU was the starting left tackle during Washington's memorable run to the NFC Championship game as a rookie. Coleman had some struggles, but the flashes were positive. And after things didn't go nearly as well on the interior last season, switching him outside is something he's sure to relish.
Coleman looks fully healthy now. That wasn't always the case last season, but some in the media at training camp thought he was moving ahead of Chris Paul for the starting left guard job until the Commanders were forced to pivot.
Head coach Dan Quinn stated that the Commanders will not be looking to bring in outside help to offset Tunsil's absence. Those plans could change, but for now, this is Coleman's job until further notice.
Repaying this faith is crucial.
Reports from Day 10 of training camp suggested that Coleman is off to a good start. He looked assured in pass protection, held his own in 1-on-1 drills against stud edge rusher Odafe Oweh, and also flashed run-blocking capabilities. There is a long way to go, but this will no doubt have been a big confidence boost.
Coleman has talent. He's got the athleticism to make strides. He's also got questions to answer after a down year in 2025.
The NFL is all about opportunity. A setback for one means opportunity for another. Coleman could be the primary beneficiary of Tunsil's injury, but he simply cannot afford to become the weak link on Washington's blindside with so much at stake for the franchise.
But maybe, just maybe, this could be the spark that ignites his career back to life. That would be a game-changer in no uncertain terms.
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