Not much has gone right for the Washington Commanders this season. However, there was one massive gamble made by general manager Adam Peters that paid off handsomely.
While other teams had their focus firmly on the legal tampering period before free agency, Peters was in discussions with the Houston Texans about what it might take to acquire five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil via trade. The compensation was steep, but the veteran was worth it.
Amid all the doom and gloom this season, Tunsil has been the constant. His pass protection is nothing short of exceptional. He's a crushing run blocker when early leverage is gained, and his tutelage of first-round right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. represented an added bonus that the Oregon product is benefitting from enormously.
Laremy Tunsil wants a new deal, and the Commanders should grant his wish
Tunsil has one more year remaining on his deal in 2026. The former Ole Miss standout thought his production this season warrants an early extension during an interview with Tashan Reed from The Washington Post. And if the Commanders had any sense, they would pay up accordingly.
"Whatever happens, happens. Of course, I want to be paid. Of course, I want to stay with this organization. … When we get to the offseason, we can handle it. [I] always think I’m the best. That’s just how I’m wired. I feel like my play speaks for itself. The tape don’t lie."Laremy Tunsil via Washington Post
The Commanders' roster is going to look a lot different next season. Peters has a significant amount of work ahead to get this squad into contention once again. Still, the decision to give Tunsil a long-term commitment should be straightforward.
This is an elite player at a premium position. Extending Tunsil and relying on his capabilities until he retires represents a shrewd piece of business. Continuity is everything along the offensive line, and if Washington also extends Chris Paul, all five of the team's starters will be returning.
Getting a deal done with Tunsil won't be cheap. One would expect the edge enforcer to get anywhere from around $25 million per season upwards. But in the short term, extending him will probably free up even more funds for Peters to spend in 2026.
Tunsil is everything the Commanders thought he would be and more. Exceptional left tackles are hard to find, and even though the penalty numbers need to come down, this is a franchise cornerstone Washington can build around.
The Commanders shouldn't overcomplicate this one. Just give Tunsil whatever he wants. He's earned it.