The Washington Commanders are recognizing the need to maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels' rookie contract. Adam Peters is going for broke, finding immediate difference-makers in pursuit of getting over the hump and past the Philadelphia Eagles. The team's bombshell trade for standout offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil was another fine example.
After a quiet start to the legal tampering window, fans got a window into why. Ian Rapoport from the NFL Network confirmed the Commanders struck a deal with the Houston Texans for Tunsil. The cost was steep, but this is the franchise-caliber left tackle Washington's been missing since the days of Trent Williams.
Tunsil needs no introduction. He's been one of the league's most prolific left tackles almost from the moment he stepped onto an NFL field. It took a lot from a compensation standpoint. But to get the best, you have to pay accordingly.
Commanders acquire another elite-level veteran to place alongside Jayden Daniels
The former first-round pick is experienced, accomplished, and a respected leader. This fits into Washington's current culture shift under head coach Dan Quinn. Their Super Bowl window is open and Tunsil gets them a lot closer.
There was a need to bolster the trenches on both sides of the football. Peters watched the Eagles overwhelm the Commanders in the NFC Championship game. He took this on board and is doing everything possible to ensure the same doesn't happen again.
Tunsil's pass protection is exemplary. He mirrors edge rushers well, is technically sound, and has no trouble gaining early leverage. The Ole Miss product can be a crushing run blocker when firing on all cylinders. This is good news for Daniels as one of the NFL's up-and-coming dual threats under center.
The Commanders paid a premium for Tunsil. They are giving up their third and seventh-round picks this year together with second and fourth-rounders in 2026 in exchange for the offensive tackle and a fourth-round selection. But if this is the acquisition that propels the offense to new heights, the cost won't be discussed.
Tunsil should be highly motivated to seize this opportunity. There is a lot of good football left in the 30-year-old, so this also represents a long-term investment. With Deebo Samuel Sr. also arriving via trade this offseason, Washington's offense has the scope to be special if everyone gets a clear run of luck on the health front.
- Commanders trade grade: A
This is a win-win for all parties. Tunsil is an exceptional player. He's the answer to Daniels' prayers in no uncertain terms. And make no mistake, this means the Commanders are going all-in to achieve another Super Bowl with Quinn leading the charge.
