It's all hands on deck for the Washington Commanders as they look to put their abysmal 2025 season firmly in the rearview mirror. And there is one overlooked dynamic that could become among the team's most important when the real action arrives.
That is the bookend offensive tackle tandem of Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr.
Tunsil and Conerly have developed a student-teacher relationship. The five-time Pro Bowl left tackle has been a willing mentor. The second-year right tackle has been like a sponge, gaining every piece of useful information from the veteran while also putting in the desired work throughout the offseason.
It's having a desired effect so far. And for Tunsil, he sees a lot of the same qualities in Conerly as he possessed when he first got into the league.
Commanders tackle relationship between Laremy Tunsil and Josh Conerly Jr. is blossoming
The former Ole Miss edge protector couldn't have been more complimentary when discussing Conerly's work ethic and talent during his media availability at Washington's recently concluded mandatory minicamp. Tunsil believes his teammate can be a star with a little extra polish, and he's going to do whatever it takes to help him reach what's quickly becoming a high ceiling.
"He's going to be a dawg. I see myself. I see somebody who wants it, you know? He wants to be great. He's listening. He comes to me every day like, "What advice have you got for me today?" We're working our a-- off in 'Bama. We're working every day."
Protecting quarterback Jayden Daniels is crucial next season. There are some concerns about the left guard and center positions, but the edge could become among the league's best pairings if Conerly makes the desired improvements.
That's a lot to ask, but the evidence around this possibility becoming reality is growing.
Conerly showed up to Washington's offseason program in tremendous shape. He's gained more muscle mass and looks put together. The sacrifices away from the team have paid off, and working alongside Tunsil during arranged private workouts in Auburn has set the table for what's to come.
The Commanders saw something in Conerly that others didn't when they took him No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. His rookie baptism was harsh, but he responded positively. If additional growth arrives, and Tunsil maintains his All-Pro-caliber standards, this is going to be an incredible pairing for Washington's offense to depend upon.
Having someone like Tunsil to lean on is an exceptional asset for Conerly, one that he is taking full advantage of. And if he gets anything closer to the blindside's enforcer's consistency throughout his career, the Commanders are only going to benefit.
It's hard to overstate just how important this relationship between Conerly and Tunsil is for the Commanders. And it's clearly blossoming.
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