Josh Conerly Jr. has (almost) everything it takes for Commanders' rookie breakout

Fixing the offensive trenches was general manager Adam Peters' biggest objective this offseason. The Washington Commanders accomplished this emphatically with two new tackles for quarterback Jayden Daniels to depend upon.

Everyone knows the accomplished credentials that five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil brings to the table. Josh Conerly Jr. is the wildcard, but one NFL analyst believes a big rookie year could be in the offing if he overcomes a major summer obstacle.

The Commanders aren't going to hand Conerly anything. They thought highly of the player and didn't hesitate to take him at No. 29 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft when he slipped through the cracks, but everything must be earned from here on out.

That was the case with every incoming player last spring. Whether it was Daniels or an undrafted free agent looking to make their way, spots were not handed out. They were given based on performance levels, and only when the coaching staff thought each player was ready for more responsibilities.

Josh Conerly Jr. must prove he belongs in Commanders' starting lineup just like everyone else

Matt Holder from The Bleacher Report highlighted this fact when discussing Conerly's rookie outlook. Winning the starting right tackle job is the most pressing objective. Things look good so far, but he believes that others won't be giving up their spot without a fight.

The Commanders traded for five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil this offseason, so [Josh] Conerly will have to learn a new position in training camp. But the rookie still has a good chance at cracking the starting lineup if he has a seamless transition and beats out last year’s starting right tackle, Andrew Wiley. Granted, second-year pro and 2024 left tackle Brandon Coleman could factor into the competition as well, but Coleman was primarily taking reps on the inside during the spring practices in Washington.Matt Holder

Andrew Wylie seems to be the main danger after occupying the starting role since joining the Commanders just two years ago. At the same time, Peters didn't spend a first-round pick on Conerly because he was a development project. They anticipate an immediate return on their investment.

The early signs at Washington's offseason program were encouraging. Conerly's footwork and technique already look NFL-ready. If the former Oregon star can add some play strength and become more impactful on running plays, it's all systems go.

Having Tunsil is a game-changer in no uncertain terms. But don't be surprised if Conerly quickly establishes himself as a foundational piece to build around long term.

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