There will be many changes to the Washington Commanders before the 2026 campaign begins. They're already underway, with David Blough replacing Kliff Kingsbury as offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. also being shown the door.
Expect these alterations to continue on the playing personnel side. General manager Adam Peters has a significant amount of hard work ahead, and another roster overhaul seems extremely likely. However, there is one decision surrounding a franchise cornerstone that should be pretty simple.
Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil was a sensational addition to the Commanders. Peters had to pay a premium for the elite blindside enforcer via trade from the Houston Texans, but he'd do it all over again in a heartbeat. He's got one more year left on his deal and wants an extension in advance. He also wasted no time in sending a message to Washington's decision-makers once the campaign concluded.
Laremy Tunsil sent a not-so-subtle contract reminder to the Commanders
Tunsil took to Instagram to deliver a not-so-subtle reminder to the Commanders. He's performed to and even above expectations. Now, he wants to be rewarded accordingly.
#Commanders LT Laremy Tunsil ain't goin playin bout his bread, Adam, #RaiseCheckbook pic.twitter.com/xE6KTHqO8L
— Deuce_Redzone (@redzoneinthelab) January 7, 2026
This shouldn't come as a great shock to the Commanders. Tunsil takes great pride in being the highest-paid left tackle. That's probably what it will cost to extend him, with projections in the region of $30 million per year already being discussed. It's a lot of money, but the former Ole Miss standout is worth all of the cash coming his way and more.
Peters revealed during his end-of-season media availability that he wants to get Tunsil tied down, and he wants to do it quickly. The front-office leader cannot afford another Terry McLaurin situation. The veteran will have no trouble holding out until he gets what he wants, which cannot happen if the Commanders want to stand the best chance of bouncing back in 2026.
There are numerous complex problems for Peters to solve in the coming months. This roster is in desperate need of youth, explosiveness, and dynamism. How the Commanders go about this is anyone's guess right now, but the decision to extend Tunsil has made itself.
Contract negotiations can be tricky. Peters and McLaurin were at loggerheads for the entire summer before eventually coming to a compromise. Tunsil represents himself, and he knows his worth. The sooner some middle ground can be reached, the better Washington's chances will be.
Tunsil was as advertised, providing exceptional pass protection and crushing run blocking. He also served as a behind-the-scenes leader and mentor, equally important to players like rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr.
The message was clear. And Peters cannot fumble this one.