The Washington Commanders have confirmed the acquisition of left tackle Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans, marking another major step to bolster their offensive line. This strategic move was made on March 10, 2025, as the Commanders look to capitalize on the momentum from their surprising run to the NFC Championship game last season.
According to multiple reports, including details shared by ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Texans will receive substantial compensation for Tunsil, who has emerged as one of the league's elite offensive tackles. Washington is sending four draft picks to Houston: a third-round and seventh-round pick for 2025, along with second-round and fourth-round picks for 2026. Houston, for its part, will give the Commanders the veteran lineman and also send back a fourth-round pick this spring.
At just 30 years old, Tunsil brings valuable experience to the Commanders, having made the Pro Bowl five times over the past six seasons. Tunsil's proven track record will significantly strengthen Washington's offensive line, which was already on the rise thanks to the elusiveness of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels had what many considered to be a historic rookie season, leading the Commanders far beyond expectations.
Last year, Washington’s offensive line performance had surprised many. It’s likely this was due, at least partly, to Daniels’ ability to evade pressure; nevertheless, adding Tunsil now aims to fortify the unit even more. This will also prevent defenses from keying too much on Daniels.
Football fans will recall Tunsil's tumultuous entry to the NFL draft back in 2016, where he fell out of the top 10 selections after compromising images surfaced just as the draft was set to begin. Drafted 13th overall by the Miami Dolphins, he spent three productive seasons there before being traded to the Texans. This latest trade marks Tunsil’s second relocation; he'll now be tasked with helping protect Daniels' blind side as Washington aims to build on last season’s success.
Despite being labeled as one of the highest-paid offensive tackles, Tunsil is on the final year of the three-year, $75 million deal he signed with Houston, which includes substantial annual cap hits. For the upcoming seasons of 2025 and 2026, he will count $21.35 million against the team's salary cap each year.
Washington has been making significant moves this offseason to improve their roster. Just over a week ago, the franchise traded for standout receiver Deebo Samuel from the San Francisco 49ers, demonstrating their aggressive approach to bolster the team’s attacking options. This commitment to improvement appears to signal to fans and players alike their intent to remain competitive as they seek another playoff run.
Brandon Coleman, who filled the role of left tackle last season and started all three postseason games, may now transition to right tackle or guard with Tunsil's arrival. This flexibility not only strengthens the squad but also enhances their depth across the offensive line.
The addition of Tunsil also fits within Washington’s broader effort to secure more seasoned talent for the future. The team has faced challenges over the years with their offensive line, especially as they look to protect their young quarterback. With Tunsil's ability to anchor the line, the Commanders hope to improve both their pass protection and run blocking, which is imperative for the overall success of their offense.
The Texans, on the other hand, face questions about their path forward without Tunsil. General manager Nick Caserio will now need to work swiftly to find solutions and fill the gap left by such a key player. Over the past season, protecting young quarterback C.J. Stroud proved problematic, and the loss of Tunsil may exacerbate those issues.
Trading Tunsil allows Houston to save around $13.85 million against the salary cap for the 2025 season, but they will incur a dead cap hit of $15 million if the agreement is finalized before the June 1 deadline. While this trade certainly benefits the Commanders as they seek to wrestle their way back to the top of the NFC, it leaves ominous tasks for the Texans as they navigate their existing challenges.
Overall, the trade of Laremy Tunsil to the Washington Commanders is more than just about the numbers of draft picks; it symbolizes the team’s aggressive determination to build on last season's successes and fortify their roster for continued relevance. Fans will undoubtedly be watching how Tunsil adjusts to the new environment as the Commanders prepare for the upcoming season.