The Washington Commanders have made notable moves early in the NFL free agency period, securing agreements with defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw and obtaining offensive tackle Laremy Tunsil through a trade with the Houston Texans. This information, from a source who’s informed about the dealings, indicates that the transactions are set to take effect when the new league year commences on Wednesday. Tunsil’s acquisition is part of a wider trade deal, where the Commanders are giving up 2025 third- and seventh-round draft selections and 2026 second- and fourth-round picks, in exchange for the seasoned five-time Pro Bowl honoree, along with a fourth-round selection this year.
Further details shared by another individual reveal Kinlaw’s contract terms, valued at $45 million over three years, with $30 million of that amount guaranteed. The addition of Kinlaw comes after the recent release of veteran Jonathan Allen, as Kinlaw, aged 27, steps in to fill the role within the team’s defense.
Tunsil, approaching his 30th birthday as training camp starts, is anticipated to significantly enhance the left tackle position, providing better protection for quarterback Jayden Daniels, marking his second season. This shift will allow Brandon Coleman to transition to guard, solidifying the Commanders’ offensive line. Presently, Tunsil holds a contract extending through 2026.
In addition to these new acquisitions, the Commanders have retained punter Tress Way and tight end John Bates. Way, who is the team’s longest-tenured player, is signed for the upcoming season, while Bates has committed to a new three-year contract.
Kinlaw, initially a first-round draft pick by San Francisco from South Carolina in 2020, when Commanders’ current GM Adam Peters was part of their executive team, achieved 4 1/2 sacks and 40 tackles with the New York Jets last season. Kinlaw has accumulated 9 1/2 sacks and 124 tackles across 64 games, including playoffs, throughout his career.
The strengthening of the defensive line with Kinlaw complements the existing talents of Daron Payne and 2024 second-round pick Johnny Newton, despite Allen’s absence. Following the re-signing of six-time All-Pro linebacker Bobby Wagner and veteran tight end Zach Ertz, Peters appears set to focus on adding edge rushers as well as exploring more opportunities through free agency, drafts, and potential trades.
Moreover, Peters has recently orchestrated an acquisition he’s personally acquainted with, by obtaining wide receiver Deebo Samuel from the Niners for a fifth-round draft choice. “I’m excited to play with him, and it’s going to be fun,” commented Wagner last week regarding the new team dynamics. “I look forward to what he brings to our team.”
Washington’s recent achievements mark an impressive turnaround, with the team bouncing from a 4-13 record to an exceptional 12-5 season, making it to the NFC championship game, fueled by Daniels’ outstanding rookie performance. With over $80 million in salary cap space available before these new agreements, the Commanders had one of the most sizeable budgets in the league to make these strategic expansions.
