Commanders OT Laremy Tunsil must perform at high level after trade

Laremy Tunsil must make a big impact for the Washington Commanders after being acquired in a trade with the Houston Texans.

Washington Commanders offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil stands on the field on day one of minicamp. | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Washington Commanders offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil is entering his first season with the team, and he has to perform well in order to keep his spot on the roster.

There's pressure from first-round pick Josh Conerly Jr. and the worry that he could decline as he turns 31 in August.

ESPN insider John Keim dove into the importance of Tunsil having a good season for the Commanders.

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Houston Texans offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil before the game against the Tennessee Titans. | Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

Tunsil approaching major first season

"Tunsil has two years left on his contract, and it's hard to imagine him playing poorly enough to force Washington to cut him after the season. If the Commanders did, they would have no dead money on their cap. But, for a five-time Pro Bowler, he's prohibitively affordable in 2026, with a cap hit of only $21.5 million -- currently 14th among offensive tackles. Washington drafted tackle Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round, and he will play on the right side. At some point in his career, he could shift to left tackle," Keim wrote.

"Still, the bigger question for Tunsil is what kind of extension would he receive if he plays as they anticipate this season? After all, the Commanders also could have their bookends for a while -- providing high-level protection for Daniels."

Tunsil is being thrust into the limelight in his first season with the Commanders, who are fresh off of an appearance in the NFC Championship Game.

The Commanders are aiming to protect Daniels at all costs, and that involved making a big trade for one of the league's top offensive tackles.

Tunsil and the Commanders will report to training camp on July 22.

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