Commanders’ offensive anchor Tunsil sidelined with triceps tear
Washington’s investment in the five-time Pro Bowler is now at risk as the team navigates potential replacements for a player ranked in ESPN’s top 10 among NFL prospects.
Washington Commanders left tackle Laremy Tunsil has suffered a torn triceps during a one-on-one pass rush drill in practice on Saturday, an injury that sources told NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo and Steve Wyche will likely require surgery. The injury, sustained while engaging with linebacker Odafe Oweh, is expected to sideline Tunsil for at least four months, potentially causing him to miss a significant portion of the regular season.
The incident occurred when Oweh rushed inside and drove into Tunsil’s upper body. Tunsil immediately bent over in apparent pain and held his right side before being evaluated in the medical tent and moving indoors for further assessment. Recovery times for such injuries typically range from four to seven months, a timeline that poses a substantial challenge for the franchise.
This development represents a significant setback for the Commanders, who had been building momentum following a 5-12 season. Tunsil, a 32-year-old five-time Pro Bowler, was the only Commanders player ranked in the top 10 of ESPN’s recent survey of coaches and executives heading into the 2026 season. His absence undermines the team’s efforts to maintain the positive trajectory established when they reached the NFC Championship Game in 2024.
Washington’s commitment to Tunsil was demonstrated in the 2025 offseason when the franchise traded four draft picks to the Houston Texans to acquire him. He subsequently signed a two-year contract extension worth $61.5 million in guarantees, averaging $30 million per season. This deal made him the first offensive lineman to receive a contract with such an average annual value, highlighting his status as one of the NFL’s premier players at his position.
The team now faces immediate personnel adjustments on the offensive line. Tunsil started 14 games last season and served as a mentor to right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. Potential replacements include veteran Andrew Wylie, who has primarily played right tackle, and Brandon Coleman, who started 12 games at left tackle as a rookie in 2024. Coleman, who recently competed with Chris Paul for a starting role at left guard, presents a viable option to fill the void left by Tunsil.
