The Washington Commanders pulled off another bombshell trade for a prolific veteran while other teams were focused on free-agent additions. Second-year general manager Adam Peters had a different strategy, striking a blockbuster deal with the Houston Texans for Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
This was a major statement of intent from the Commanders. They are pushing all their chips into the middle with quarterback Jayden Daniels on his rookie contract. They are ready to win now and will stop at nothing to ensure this Super Bowl window is maximized.
Unfortunately, this came with some collateral damage attached.
Tunsil's arrival was never going to be good news for everybody. That's the price of progress around the league. Fortunately for popular veteran Cornelius Lucas, his production in 2024 gave him a solid platform to get another deal elsewhere.
Cornelius Lucas takes chances elsewhere after Commanders' trade for Laremy Tunsil
The Commanders had no use for Lucas after acquiring Tunsil. That might be a little harsh on the versatile swing tackle, but it's all part of the business. His spell in Washington officially ended after he signed a deal with the Cleveland Browns.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the Browns have Lucas a two-year contract that could be worth up to $10 million. This also represents a good opportunity to start depending on the health of Dawand Jones.
At the very least, Lucas becomes a key rotational piece with the ability to slot into the lineup at either tackle spot with minimal fuss. This is a niche he carved out impressively for himself in Washington. The AFC North club is hoping the same trend continues.
Lucas got a decent payday after impressing when called upon in 2024. The veteran split reps with rookie Brandon Coleman on Daniels' blindside over the opening stages of the campaign. It was a recipe for success until the first-year pro was ready to assume the lion's share of responsibilities.
The former Kansas State standout played 464 snaps last season, giving up three penalties and just one sack. Lucas earned an outstanding 79.1 pass-blocking grade for his efforts, which didn't go unnoticed by a willing suitor like the Browns.
What the future holds for Coleman is anyone's guess. The Commanders have a new left tackle — an immediate upgrade capable of providing assured protection against the highest-caliber of opposition. This suggests a position switch is coming for the TCU product, but where that'll be is the talking point among fans.
Maybe it'll be at left guard as Nick Allegretti goes to the right with Sam Cosmi injured. Maybe it'll be a move to right tackle with Andrew Wylie switching inside. There is no telling for sure, but it'll be fascinating to watch unfold over the summer.
Lucas was surplus to requirements in Washington, but he can leave with his head held high. He was a model professional, an outstanding leader, and a consistent performer. That's all anybody could have asked when he joined the franchise in 2020.
As for the Commanders? They are going for broke. Trading for Tunsil is the latest example of Peters' purposeful aggression to keep Washington among the leading Super Bowl contenders.
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