Commanders' best option to replace Laremy Tunsil already on roster
No one can replace Laremy Tunsil, but the Commanders have a solid backup plan.
The Washington Commanders are facing a major setback after their left tackle, Laremy Tunsil, suffered a torn pectoral muscle during practice. Tunsil, who was the highest-paid offensive lineman in NFL history following a trade from the Jacksonville Jaguars in March 2025, will likely miss a significant portion of the 2026 season. This has left the Commanders in need of a new left tackle.
The command center for potential replacements is clearly Brandon Coleman. The 2024 NFL Draft pick has played left tackle for Washington since the conclusion of last season, starting 12 games. He played well, particularly in pass protection, with Pro Football Focus grading him 79.1 and 82 for pass protection in his last two starts. Washington's new offensive coordinator, David Blough, will employ a zone blocking scheme in 2026, which is a beneficial fit for Coleman due to his athleticism.
Other options, such as Andrew Wylie and veteran Trent Scott, are not ideal. Wylie, often mentioned as a candidate, is better suited for right tackle or guard positions. Scott, while experienced, is not the most obvious replacement for Tunsil's role. GM Adam Peters wanted more at the left tackle position, leading to the trade for Tunsil and thus Coleman's selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Commanders selected Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft to play right tackle, preventing the idea of moving him to left tackle. While Conerly could potentially handle the transition, it would be a bad idea. He was settling into right tackle last season and has had a strong offseason. Keeping Conerly at right tackle and sliding Coleman over to left tackle seems to be the best option for the Commanders.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — it may contain errors, so check the original before relying on it.
