Laremy Tunsil is an experienced professional who knows how to ramp up preparations gradually. The Washington Commanders now know that when it's time to strap up the pads and play big-boy football, the standout left tackle will deliver the goods.
The Commanders made a huge investment in Tunsil this offseason. Second-year general manager Adam Peters recognized the need to protect quarterback Jayden Daniels more effectively. As other teams were navigating the legal tampering window's early stages, the front-office leader was finalizing the five-time Pro Bowler's trade from the Houston Texans.
This has the scope to be a game-changer. Tunsil is still one of the league's most accomplished pass protectors. The number of penalties wasn't ideal last season, but this was a risk well worth taking from the Commanders' standpoint.
Laremy Tunsil showcased his dominance during Commanders' joint practice with the Patriots
Tunsil's been a slow burn as expected this offseason. He skipped voluntary OTAs and has been given plenty of rest days as the Commanders manage his workload. It's nothing to worry about, especially with someone who brings so many glittering credentials to the table.
Anyone who had any concerns about Tunsil should have full confidence after joint practice with the New England Patriots. The former first-round pick out of Ole Miss showcased his physicality and overall dominance throughout. Nobody got past him, and those who tried too hard paid a heavy price.
I have to let DC know that Laremy Tunsil is up here at joint practices mandhandling folks. He’s a stone wall. The youngster Josh Conerly Jr is having a day as well. #NFL #RaiseHail
— Lake Lewis Jr (@LakeLewisJr) August 6, 2025
Laremy Tunsil shut off multiple edge rushes from Keion White in 11 on 11. Impressive to watch
— Jon Lyons (@TheRealJonLyons) August 6, 2025
Laremy Tunsil took a Patriots LB to the stands & a fight was close to breaking out, per @JPFinlayNBCS 👀🍿
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) August 6, 2025
Simply put, this is exactly what the Commanders had in mind when they landed Tunsil. He's an elite blindside enforcer. He's already the best left tackle Washington's had since Trent Williams. And this joint practice proved just how beneficial he could be for the team's chances in 2025.
With rookie Josh Conerly Jr. also having a fantastic day versus New England, the Commanders might have their bookend tackle tandem from Week 1 after all. The No. 29 pick remains a work in progress, so bringing him along gradually remains the correct path. That's not the case with Tunsil, who'll be expected to play an integral role from the moment he steps onto the field.
It would be surprising if Tunsil saw any reps in the preseason. If Daniels gets some work, his left tackle will too. But the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year has regular-season experience under his belt this time around. That provides Washington with the luxury of keeping him out of harm's way.
When the time comes, it'll be Tunsil's job to keep his blindside clear of pressure consistently. And based on this showing, his presence will be an absolute revelation.