In a season where the Washington Commanders have struggled to find consistency or momentum, one thing has become increasingly clear: Laremy Tunsil is exactly who they hoped he’d be-and maybe even more.
There haven’t been many bright spots in Washington this year. The offense has sputtered, the defense has had its lapses, and the overall record reflects a team still searching for its identity.
But amid the chaos, Tunsil has been a rock. And in Week 15 against the Giants, he put on another clinic that reminded everyone why the Commanders paid a premium to bring him in.
Laremy Tunsil: The Anchor on the Edge
FOX Sports analyst and former NFL linebacker Jonathan Vilma was on the call for that game at MetLife Stadium, and it didn’t take long for him to zero in on Tunsil’s impact. Vilma, who’s seen plenty of elite offensive linemen in his day, was quick to echo what Washington’s coaching staff had already been saying behind closed doors: Tunsil has been playing at an elite level all season.
“The coaching staff said how well he’s been playing this season,” Vilma noted during the broadcast. “I went back and took a closer look for myself, and my word. He has been outstanding all year long.”
And he’s not wrong. Tunsil’s performance against a talented Giants pass rush-featuring veteran Brian Burns and first-round rookie Abdul Carter-was a masterclass in pass protection.
Even after briefly exiting the game in the first half with a shoulder issue, Tunsil returned after halftime and didn’t miss a beat. He continued to lock down the left side with the kind of poise and power that’s become his trademark.
Worth Every Penny
When Washington acquired Tunsil via trade from the Houston Texans, there were questions. Was it too steep a price?
Would he live up to the billing? Those questions have been answered-loudly.
Tunsil hasn’t just been good. He’s been dominant. Week after week, he’s neutralized top-tier edge rushers, giving Washington's quarterbacks a fighting chance and providing a rare sense of stability on an offensive line that’s seen its share of shuffling.
For a Commanders team looking to build a new foundation under general manager Adam Peters, Tunsil is the kind of cornerstone piece you don’t let walk out the door. He’s a five-time Pro Bowler, still playing at the peak of his powers, and he’s made it clear he wants to be paid-preferably to stay in Washington.
The Next Step: Lock Him In
With the 2026 offseason approaching, this should be one of the easiest decisions on Peters’ to-do list. Tunsil has earned a contract extension, and the Commanders would be wise to get it done before the market resets again.
There’s no need to overthink this. You don’t let a franchise left tackle-one who’s still in his prime-hit the open market or even approach it.
He’s changed the tone in the trenches. He’s changed the expectations. And most importantly, he’s changed the outlook for this offensive line.
A Rare Bright Spot in a Tough Year
Let’s call it like it is: this season hasn’t gone the way Washington hoped. But if you’re looking for a building block, a player who’s delivered every week regardless of the scoreboard, look no further than No. 78.
Tunsil’s presence has been felt in every game he’s played. His technique, strength, and football IQ are on full display every snap. And when a respected voice like Jonathan Vilma takes time during a broadcast to highlight just how dominant a lineman has been, it carries weight.
If Tunsil closes out the season the way he’s played to this point, there’s no debate-he deserves whatever deal keeps him in burgundy and gold for the long haul.
In a year full of questions, Tunsil has been the answer.