The Washington Commanders knew they needed to add some protection for Jayden Daniels during the 2025 offseason, and they sought out that need in both free agency and the 2025 NFL draft. First, they brought in Laremy Tunsil from the Houston Texans, a veteran left tackle who will protect Daniels’ blind side. Then, they drafted right tackle Josh Conerly, Jr., who is already the projected starter at the position.
With the additions of Conerly and Tunsil, Brandon Coleman moved back to the right side, although behind Conerly, and Sam Cosmi remains at right guard. Coleman may start the season for Cosmi, though, if Cosmi isn’t ready. Conerly, the 29th overall draft pick this year, is turning heads already, resulting in Pro Football Focus naming him the Commanders’ rookie to watch in 2025.
Conerly figures to compete for the right tackle job and potentially improve a blocking unit that ranked 22nd in PFF pass-blocking grade last season. His 83.6 PFF pass-blocking grade ranked 17th among qualified FBS tackles last season. If he does win the job, it will allow Andrew Wylie and Brandon Coleman to play inside, where the team may not have Sam Cosmi to start the season.
Conerly is in a good position to start at right tackle, he has all of the measurables and many of the intangibles. The Commanders’ offensive line wasn’t pretty in 2024, despite the overall success of the team. The majority of that success can be laid at the feet of Jayden Daniels and his ability to extend plays, but the goal in 2025 will be different. Daniels shouldn’t have to extend as many plays this year as he did last year, which means he shouldn’t take as many sacks either.
There’s only one way to improve on the 2024 season, and that is to win the NFC Championship and make a Super Bowl appearance. The Commanders have a very real shot to do this in 2025, and Conerly looks to be a big part of it.
