Insider lists potential Commanders pivot after Laremy Tunsil injury if Brandon Coleman plan fails

The Washington Commanders were dealt a brutal blow when left tackle Laremy Tunsil suffered a torn triceps. Making his return at any point during the 2026 season will be questionable at best after he undergoes surgery.

In Tunsil’s absence, head coach Dan Quinn pegged Brandon Coleman to be the new starting left tackle. However, the Commanders have numerous options as they figure out their post-Tunsil plans, via Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated.

“The Laremy Tunsil injury is a tough one. The good news is Washington has options,” Breer wrote. “The first one they’ll try is putting Brandon Coleman, who started 12 games at the position, in Tunsil’s spot. And if that doesn’t work, 2025 first-round pick Josh Conerly Jr., who played right tackle as a rookie, was a left tackle at Oregon. So flipping him back over there and moving veteran Andrew Wylie in at right tackle would be another relatively easy solution.”

With or without Tunsil, one of Washington’s top priorities in 2026 is giving quarterback Jayden Daniels time to operate in the pocket. Quinn will be looking for the tackle duo that gives the Commanders their best opportunity to do just that while also opening up rushing lanes.

Coleman appeared in 12 games overall in 2025, making five starts. He spent the final three games at left tackle, which would provide some continuance. He has 28 total games of experience with the Commanders, making 17 starts. While sliding him in at left tackle is a natural fit, Coleman must still earn the role. Furthermore, his ability to play guard may come useful down the stretch.

Conerly did start all 17 games for the Commanders in 2017. However, he earned a 59.9 grade from Pro Football Focus, ranking 67/89 tackles. Washington could opt to move Conerly back to his college position, which got him drafted in the first round.

The Tunsil injury has sent shockwaves throughout the Commanders organization. Prior to Week 1, they must have their new left tackle plan set in place.

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