They gave up four draft picks to trade for Laremy Tunsil, but the Washington Commanders apparently only see the five-time Pro Bowler as a short-term solution at left tackle, based on the team’s long-term plan for 2025 NFL draft first-round pick, Josh Conerly Jr.
The former Oregon standout is expected to begin his career in the pros as a right tackle, but “the belief is that he could move to left tackle down the road,” according to ESPN’s John Keim.
It’s a logical strategy when Tunsil is 30, while Conerly played on the left side in college. Yet, Conerly’s first task is to simply win the starting job on the right.
Fortunately, Keim noted how Conerly’s “footwork and ability to play in space and move on pulling action make the team confident. It’s hard to accurately gauge an offensive lineman until the pads come on in practice, but his movement skills impressed.”
That’s good news for the rookie and for the overall strategy of general manager Adam Peters, but it could spell trouble for Tunsil. Especially since the latter has already faced doubts about his ability to still be a force after his move to Washington.
Commanders Expecting a Lot from Josh Conerly Jr.
Expectations were already high for Conerly, who is being asked to replace former Super Bowl winner Andrew Wylie on the right side. Asking the 21-year-old to also prepare for an eventual transition into becoming the blindside protector for franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels is a heavy burden.
It’s not as if Conerly isn’t qualified for both tasks. He proved as much by handling some of the most talented edge-rushers in the collegiate game as a left tackle.
The most notable example occurred against versatile Penn State edge Abdul Carter. Conerly was able to consistently win against the third-overall pick of Washington’s NFC East rivals the New York Giants with speed and power, per Nate Tice of Yahoo! Sports.
The Commanders know they could have to deal with Carter for the next decade, so they’ll want their own answer for a natural disruptor who’s already impressed the Giants. Conerly can be the equalizer the Commanders need, provided he overcomes a key weakness called out this offseason.
Tunsil’s presence will at least give Conerly ample time to refine his game. The bigger question is does the decorated veteran know he’s potentially only a stop-gap at arguably the second-most important position on the roster?
Laremy Tunsil Can Change Commanders’ Plans
He may be entering his 10th NFL season, but Tunsil can take comfort from how long other marquee names played his position. Linemen such as nine-time Pro Bowler Jason Peters, who spent 19 years as a viable left tackle. Or All-Pro Tyron Smith, who enjoyed 14 years on the edge.
It’s conceivable Tunsil could have another five-plus years of solid football left in his career. Assuming he can stay healthy and fully focused.
The latter is something observers of his game have been critical about. With one pundit slamming Tunsil for skipping voluntary OTAs.
Frankly, Tunsil can’t risk anything less than 100 percent commitment when Conerly is waiting in the wings. Even Tunsil is convinced the 29th player drafted this year will be special because of “the way he moves, the way he bends, athletic, smart, very intelligent,” per Keim.
Conerly showed off some of those nifty move skills during crucial early work this offseason, highlighted by Natalie Spala of 7News DC.
