Laremy Tunsil era hasn’t started but Commanders already look like geniuses

The Washington Commanders parted ways with significant resources to acquire five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil via trade from the Houston Texans. Adam Peters believes this could be the franchise-changing blindside protector capable of taking quarterback Jayden Daniels' game to even greater heights.

One NFL analyst went one step further, claiming that Tunsil's added motivation could be the missing piece to Washington's postseason puzzle in 2025.

Tunsil is the best Commanders' left tackle since Trent Williams before he plays a down. He's an exceptional pass protector, displaying athleticism, poise, and technical prowess capable of keeping the league's most accomplished edge rushers away from the backfield.

The run blocking is above average, and the penalties from last season need to come down. Even so, this has the scope to change everything for Washington's protection in front of Daniels.

Commanders are getting a highly motivated Laremy Tunsil in 2025

Zoltán Buday from Pro Football Focus lent further weight to these claims, placing Tunsil at No. 8 on his list of the NFL's best offensive tackles. The analyst highlighted the impressive statistics accumulated by the former first-round pick, especially in pass protection. He also thought there was a new chip on his shoulder after the Texans made him surplus to requirements.

While he has never been better than an above-average run blocker, [Laremy] Tunsil continues to be one of the best pass protectors in the NFL. During his six seasons with the Houston Texans, he earned a 92.3 PFF pass-blocking grade, which ranked first among 57 qualifying offensive tackles. He still ranked fourth with an 89.1 PFF pass-blocking grade. Now, the 30-year-old will prove his mettle with the Commanders after being traded this offseason.Zoltán Buday

As previously stated, it's been a while since the Commanders had a top-10 offensive tackle. Considering how well Daniels performed with fellow rookie Brandon Coleman manning his blindside last season, there's just no telling what he could accomplish with Tunsil manning the spot in 2025.

If Tunsil maintains his high-performance levels, it'll make the entire offensive line better. This trade will also look like a massive steal if the Ole Miss graduate meets some lofty targets.

Tunsil decided to skip voluntary OTAs, which isn't a big deal. He's experienced enough to prepare effectively away from the team, and he'll be ready to rock when Washington's mandatory minicamp arrives. And there is plenty of incentive to perform well with a new deal potentially in his immediate future if the performance levels are sufficient enough.

The Commanders are betting big on Tunsil. He's more than capable of delivering the goods.

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