Dan Quinn
Getty
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn.
The Washington Commanders are watching the pay scale for offensive linemen change. For the price of a fifth-round pick, the Cleveland Browns traded for Houston Texans offensive tackle Tytus Howard. The Browns signed Howard to a three-year, $21 million contract extension. The hosts at 106.7 The Fan chided the Commanders for taking too long in inking Tytus Howard to an extension.
“Keep waiting until the end of August to get the signing done. My watch has worked the entire time; every new second is another test to finish the deal.”
Tytus Howard just got $21 million AAV, next up is Laremy Tunsil! pic.twitter.com/Om9FTvVKEF
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) March 2, 2026
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According to Spotrac, the team will have one season remaining with their left character, under his current deal. Tunsil, who is 31 years old, currently earns an average annual salary of $25 million Many observers believe Tunsil has significant leverage, as he could allow his deal to expire and wait for upcoming signings to influence a higher next contract. Another host at The Fan posed a related question.
“And you’ll get the people that come out and say, ‘It takes two to tango.’ Would Tytus Howard sign right now because he would be smart to wait? There’s really no reason for him to get a deal in place ahead of the market when all these tackles are about to get paid. And there’s some truth to that.'”
Tytus Howard
GettyOffensive tackle Tytus Howard was traded from Houston to Cleveland.
Tunsil’s production Proves His Worth
According to Pro Football Focus, the Commanders’ blindside protector is the No. 7 offensive tackle in all of the NFL. Moreover, Howard allowed one sack and two quarterback hits in 2025 while playing 802 snaps. As a left tackle, opponents will deploy their fastest rusher to his side. Howard slides horizontally, without lunging or sacrificing technique. Jayden Daniels can take deeper drops without worry of pressure.
Estimates suggest Tunsil could earn between $27 and $30 million annually under a new contract. The Commanders invested four draft picks to acquire Tunsil. Signing an extension soon would also allow the team to lower his 2026 salary cap hit and offer more financial flexibility.
Laremy Tunsil
GettyCommanders left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
New Offensive Scheme Needs Stronger Blocking
When the Commanders hired David Blough, he clarified his priorities. He emphasizes creating explosive plays, which depend on deep passes and require sustained pass protection. Blough also intends to highlight wide receiver Terry McLaurin, aiming for the Pro Bowl receiver to receive at least ten targets each game. The coordinator recognizes Daniels’ preference for rolling left to throw, with Howard identified as the primary blocker on those plays.
Terry McLaurin averaged 6 targets a game in 2025.#RaiseHail pic.twitter.com/Ldn22YFnW5
— SleeperCommanders (@SleeperWSH) February 12, 2026
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Team Future Rests on Stronger 2026
Head coach Dan Quinn is under pressure. After a 5-12 season, his seat is somewhat hot, with some questioning his job security. Next, Daniels enters his third year. Historically, the third year is when franchises consider exercising the fifth-year option. Daniels’ health remains a point of debate among both the fanbase and the media.
If Howard performs as he has since arriving in Washington, he directly supports Daniels’ health. The Commanders’ offense needs playmakers. While Howard may never handle the ball, he protects those who do. How much should the Commanders pay him?