The Washington Commanders set their sights on finding an upgrade at the left tackle position this offseason. Brandon Coleman was solid as a rookie overall, but Adam Peters thought an elite-level performer was essential to help quarterback Jayden Daniels continue his meteoric rise to superstardom.
Peters, as he's done throughout his successful stint as general manager so far, swung for the fences with a bombshell trade to acquire Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans. While others were focused on finding free agents over the legal tampering window's early stages, the Commanders were busy putting together a package to secure the five-time Pro Bowler's services.
This sent shockwaves through the NFL and once again proved how serious the Commanders are about becoming a perennial contender. Tunsil is one of the league's most productive blindside enforcers. He's a supreme pass protector and a crushing force on running plays. The former first-round pick instantly changes the dynamic for the better.
The Commanders had to give up substantial resources to get this deal over the line. However, if Tunsil continues his exceptional performance levels, nobody will care what it costs to acquire him.
DeMeco Ryans believes Laremy Tunsil can help Commanders prosper
Texans head coach DeMeco Ryans delved deeper into their decision to part ways with Tunsil when probed by J.P. Finlay from NBC Sports at the league meetings. He thought the deal was a win-win for all parties. The former linebacker also gave the player a glowing reference, acknowledging the impact it can have on Daniels in 2025 and beyond.
"I thought it was a move that was beneficial to everyone. At the same time, it was a move where we were able to get some valuable draft picks out of it. Washington was able to get a really good player as well, so I think it benefitted both teams. You're getting one of the top one-on-one pass protectors in the NFL, so I think it will definitely benefit Jayden [Daniels] from having a guy who he knows can protect his blindside."
DeMeco Ryans
Considering how closely Ryans and Tunsil have worked together over the last couple of years, this carries a ton of weight. His on-field production needs no introduction. What his presence can do for others is equally, if not more, important.
The Commanders cannot afford to have any passengers on their quest to surpass the Philadelphia Eagles. Washington's offensive line improved last season, but they were found wanting in the NFC Championship game. Tunsil can change all that in an instant.
Coleman will likely switch to the right-hand side, either at guard or tackle, depending on what the Commanders have planned for Andrew Wylie. Tyler Biadasz is cemented as the team's starting center, and Nick Allegretti should be at left guard next to Tunsil. That looks like a potentially productive unit capable of making things more comfortable for Daniels.
Peters is pushing all his chips into the middle to maximize Daniels' rookie contract. Finding him a prolific left tackle wasn't a bad way to confirm their unwavering support for the signal-caller following his rookie campaign for the ages.
And if Ryans' glowing praise is any indication, this has the makings of another franchise-altering transaction from the new regime.
