Analyst exposes how Commanders absolutely fleeced Texans for Laremy Tunsil

Laremy Tunsil's previous accomplishments need no introduction. The Houston Texans might have deemed him expendable this offseason, but the Washington Commanders were more than happy to take the elite left tackle off their hands.

And one respected analyst believes this could be an absolute steal when push comes to shove.

The Commanders prioritized (and rightfully so) the options around quarterback Jayden Daniels this offseason. Adam Peters started this bold strategy in the trenches, acquiring Tunsil in a blockbuster trade and spending the No. 29 pick in the 2025 NFL Draft on Josh Conerly Jr. Couple this with the wide receiver upgrades and continuity elsewhere, and it's not hard to see why optimism is so high.

ESPN analyst thinks the Commanders got a bargain with Laremy Tunsil

Bill Barnwell from ESPN agrees. The analyst lauded the trade and alleviated concerns about Tunsil's high penalty numbers last season. Considering what other left tackles are getting paid around the league, he thought that Washington would have pulled off a major heist if the former first-round pick maintains his supreme performance levels.

The Commanders, on the other hand, probably see a player who has another contract or even two ahead of him. The illegal formation penalties were all in one game, suggesting they might have been from an overzealous officiating crew. [Laremy] Tunsil has had issues with flags in the past, but 2024 was the first time he led the league in penalties or came close since 2019. And frankly, in an offseason when Dan Moore Jr. and Jaylon Moore signed for at least $15 million per season to play left tackle, Tunsil making $21 million per year in 2025 and 2026 might feel like a bargain.Bill Barnwell

The Texans had their reasons for parting ways with Tunsil. DeMeco Ryans felt that a younger, more vibrant protection in front of quarterback C.J. Stroud was desirable. Washington made them an offer they couldn't refuse, and the rest is history.

Tunsil is a game-changing addition to the Commanders. He's an elite pass-protector and a five-time Pro Bowler. Offensive tackles tend to play well into their 30s, so Peters will see this as a long-term investment in addition to someone who can improve their immediate aspirations.

Teams cannot put a price on outstanding blindside protection. If Tunsil gives Daniels some much-needed extra time in the pocket, that's all the dynamic signal-caller will need to take his game to new heights. And nobody will be grumbling about the compensation attached to this transaction if this scenario becomes a reality.

With a lofty billing comes raised expectations. Tunsil has proven on countless occasions throughout his career that he's the man for the big moment. Something the Commanders hope will continue in 2025 and way into the future.

More Commanders news and analysis