When Washington pulled the trigger on the trade for Laremy Tunsil, it was a bold move-one that came with a hefty price tag in draft capital and expectations. But now, as the season nears its close, it’s clear: this wasn’t just a splash.
It was a tidal wave. And offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury isn’t shy about saying it.
Tunsil, long considered one of the league’s premier left tackles, arrived in D.C. with plenty of talent but also a few questions. His tenure in Houston had cooled off, and while the pedigree was there, the Commanders were betting big that he still had elite football left in him.
Turns out, he did.
Tunsil’s Impact: More Than Just Protection
From the moment he stepped onto the field in the Burgundy and Gold, Tunsil has been a difference-maker. He’s locked down the blindside with the kind of consistency and physicality that sets the tone for an entire offense.
In pass protection, he’s been a wall-giving Washington’s quarterbacks the time they need to operate. And in the run game, when the offense finds rhythm early, Tunsil’s ability to seal edges and drive defenders off the ball has been central to that success.
Yes, the penalties are still a bit high-something that’s followed him throughout his career-but when you look at the total body of work, it’s hard to argue that he hasn’t been one of the top performers at his position this season.
Kliff Kingsbury certainly isn’t arguing.
Kingsbury: “He’s Been Phenomenal”
Kingsbury didn’t hold back when asked about Tunsil’s impact.
“He’s been phenomenal, more than I could have ever expected, I’d say,” Kingsbury said. “Just the type of person, the type of character, the way he works, the way he leads the young guys… And the play speaks for itself.
It’d be hard to find one who has played better at that position this season. He’s gonna get a lot of money.”
That’s high praise from a coach who’s seen plenty of elite offensive linemen over the years. And he’s right-the tape backs it up. Tunsil’s been everything Washington hoped for and more: a leader in the locker room, a mentor to younger linemen, and a cornerstone on the field.
What Comes Next: A Deal That Needs to Get Done
Tunsil is under contract through the 2026 season, but the Commanders would be smart to get ahead of the curve. Locking him up with an extension this offseason could not only ensure stability at one of the most important positions in football, but it could also help the team manage the salary cap more efficiently heading into 2026.
There’s always risk when you invest big money in a player, especially one entering his 30s. But offensive linemen often age better than most positions, and Tunsil has a track record of durability and high-level performance. He’s played through injuries, anchored shaky lines, and still managed to perform at a Pro Bowl level.
If Washington had a better record this year, there’s a strong chance we’d be talking about Tunsil as an All-Pro candidate. That’s the level he’s played at.
A Franchise Pillar
In a year where not every offseason move has panned out, Tunsil has been the exception-and then some. He’s been the best left tackle Washington’s had since Trent Williams, and that’s not a comparison anyone makes lightly. He’s brought stability, toughness, and elite play to a position that’s crucial for any team trying to build a winning foundation.
Whether or not Kliff Kingsbury is part of the Commanders' future beyond this season remains to be seen. But there’s no question about what Adam Peters needs to do when the offseason hits: make sure Laremy Tunsil stays in Washington for the long haul.
He’s not just a great addition. He’s the addition.