The Washington Commanders’ season has spiraled out of control, with five consecutive losses dropping them to 3-7. The last four haven’t even been close, all decided by more than 20 points.
Everything that could have gone wrong for the Commanders has gone wrong. Between injuries, underperforming players, and a brutal schedule, Washington’s season has landed on the exact opposite end of the outcome variance spectrum from last year.
With that said, there is one move the Commanders made over the offseason that’s paid off nicely.
Laremy Tunsil has been the Commanders’ most valuable player of 2025
For all of the problems the Commanders have encountered this season, left tackle Laremy Tunsil is the least of them. He was brought to Washington to help boost the team’s contender status. While that hasn’t worked out, it hasn’t been for a lack of effort from the five-time Pro Bowler.
Tunsil has been his usual self and had a particularly standout performance against the Detroit Lions while lining up against star pass-rusher Aidan Hutchinson. The 2022 No. 2 overall pick was held in check, with only two pressures and one quarterback hit.
Better yet, Tunsil’s mentorship has made an impact on rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr., who has steadily improved throughout the year. This was highlighted by Commanders insider John Keim of ESPN, who praised the left tackle for his exceptional impact since arriving via trade from the Houston Texans.
“In a disaster of a season, Washington at least knows it has a high-quality left tackle. It traded three draft picks in March to acquire Tunsil, who has given the team its best tackle since Trent Williams. Tunsil has worked with rookie right tackle Josh Conerly Jr. as well, counseling him through tough games and helping with technique. Tunsil will be 32 next season and his contract expires after 2026, but the Commanders will try to extend him — otherwise the trade would have been a bad one.”
John Keim
Washington is unlikely to have many Pro Bowlers this season, given the team’s record. In fact, it’s hard to think of anyone who deserves a bid aside from Tunsil, who should be considered a safe bet to earn his sixth selection.
Additionally, there’s a legitimate case for the Ole Miss product receiving his first All-Pro nod. That’s how good Tunsil has been over his first season with the Commanders.
The Commanders are in a rough position roster-wise, with very few long-term pieces to build around aside from quarterback Jayden Daniels. But they have one crucial stalwart in Tunsil.
