Commanders Star Laremy Tunsil to Undergo Surgery for Torn Triceps

Five-time Pro Bowler Laremy Tunsil faces a four-to-seven-month recovery following a triceps injury sustained during Saturday's practice.

Washington Commanders left tackle Laremy Tunsil will undergo surgery to repair a torn triceps, an injury that typically requires a recovery window of four to seven months. The five-time Pro Bowler sustained the tear during a one-on-one pass rush drill in Saturday's practice session. Following the incident, the 32-year-old lineman was observed bending over in pain while clutching his right side before being escorted to the medical tent. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the surgical requirement on Monday, August 10, 2026, noting that while the team hopes for a return this season, Tunsil is expected to miss significant time.

Brandon Coleman has been named the starting left tackle for the Commanders effective immediately. Coleman, who had been competing with Chris Paul for the starting left guard position during training camp, brings experience to the role having started 12 games at left tackle as a rookie in 2024. He also recorded three starts at the position last year during a previous period when Tunsil was sidelined by injury. Quinn cited Coleman's excellent offseason and the team's confidence in his ability to play winning football as primary reasons for the depth chart transition.

Financial Impact and Roster Standing

The loss of Tunsil comes shortly after Washington secured the tackle with a two-year contract extension during the offseason. The deal included $61.5 million in total guarantees and established Tunsil as the first offensive lineman in NFL history to earn a contract averaging $30 million per season. His value to the franchise was further highlighted by a recent ESPN survey of league coaches and executives, which listed him as the only Commanders player ranked within the top 10 at his specific position heading into the 2026 campaign.

Coach Dan Quinn on the Injury

During his Monday press conference, Dan Quinn described Tunsil as an unbelievable player and a fantastic teammate. The coach emphasized that losing a player of Tunsil's caliber is a crucial blow to the offensive unit. Although the specific timeline for a return remains undisclosed, the minimum four-month rehabilitation period places his earliest potential availability late in the season. The Commanders' medical staff will monitor his progress following the procedure to determine if a return before the end of the 2026 schedule is feasible.

Brandon Coleman Steps In

With Tunsil moving to the injured list, the offensive line configuration shifts to rely on Coleman's veteran presence. Having started 15 total games at left tackle over the past two seasons, Coleman is the most experienced internal option to protect the quarterback's blind side. The competition at left guard will now focus on Chris Paul as Coleman focuses exclusively on the tackle role. The team enters this period of transition following Tunsil's injury on the right side of his body, which occurred during high-intensity drills meant to prepare the front line for the upcoming season.