Laremy Tunsil has built a reputation as one of the NFL’s premier left tackles, protecting quarterbacks for the Miami Dolphins, Houston Texans, and now the Washington Commanders. While his elite pass protection has earned multiple Pro Bowl selections, his career has also been marked by one of the most memorable NFL Draft controversies, blockbuster trades, and, most recently, a concerning injury during training camp.
Here’s a complete look at Laremy Tunsil’s injury, contract, gas mask controversy, trade history, NFL Draft journey, and practice exit.
Laremy Tunsil Injury Update
The biggest storyline surrounding Tunsil is his recent training camp injury with the Washington Commanders.
During a one-on-one pass-rushing drill, Tunsil suffered a torn triceps and was forced to leave practice immediately after receiving medical attention. Early reports indicate that surgery is expected, and the injury could sideline him for a significant portion of the 2026 NFL season.
The Commanders now face the challenge of replacing one of the NFL’s best offensive tackles while protecting franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Laremy Tunsil Practice Exit
Fans quickly noticed Tunsil walking off the practice field after the injury occurred during a drill against edge rusher Odafe Oweh.
Coaches and trainers evaluated him before he headed to the locker room for further testing. Medical examinations later confirmed the torn triceps diagnosis, making his practice exit one of the biggest injury stories of the Commanders’ preseason.
Laremy Tunsil Contract
Tunsil has consistently reset the market for offensive linemen.
After joining Washington via trade in 2025, he signed a two-year contract extension worth approximately $60 million, averaging around $30 million per season. At the time, it made him the first offensive lineman in NFL history to reach the $30 million-per-year mark.
His contract reflects his value as one of football’s premier blind-side protectors.
Laremy Tunsil Trade History
Tunsil has been involved in two of the NFL’s most notable trades.
Miami Dolphins to Houston Texans
In 2019, Miami traded Tunsil to Houston in exchange for a massive package that included multiple first-round draft picks. The move helped the Dolphins accelerate their rebuilding process.
Houston Texans to Washington Commanders
Ahead of the 2025 season, Houston traded Tunsil to Washington, where he immediately became the cornerstone of the Commanders’ offensive line and later earned his lucrative contract extension.
Laremy Tunsil Mask Controversy
Perhaps no NFL Draft moment is more unforgettable than the incident involving Tunsil’s gas mask.
Minutes before the 2016 NFL Draft began, a video was posted on his social media account showing him wearing a gas mask while smoking from a bong. The post, which Tunsil said resulted from a hacked account, caused his draft stock to plummet dramatically.
Many teams reportedly removed him from their draft boards despite him being considered a potential No. 1 overall pick.
The controversy remains one of the most shocking moments in NFL Draft history.
Laremy Tunsil Draft Story
Coming out of Ole Miss, Tunsil was widely regarded as the best offensive tackle in the 2016 class.
Instead of becoming the first overall selection, he slid all the way to the 13th overall pick, where the Miami Dolphins selected him.
Despite the unexpected draft-day fall, Tunsil quickly proved he belonged among the NFL’s elite offensive linemen.
NFL Career Highlights
Since entering the league, Tunsil has established himself as one of football’s most dependable left tackles.
Career accomplishments include:
- Five Pro Bowl selections
- Starting every game he has played
- Elite pass-blocking grades throughout his career
- Long-term contracts with multiple franchises
- Becoming one of the highest-paid offensive linemen in NFL history
What Happens Next?
Washington’s offensive line now faces uncertainty following Tunsil’s injury.
If he misses extended time, the Commanders may rely on Brandon Coleman or other depth options to fill the crucial left tackle position while hoping their All-Pro protector returns later in the season.
Final Thoughts
Laremy Tunsil‘s NFL journey has included everything from a dramatic draft-night controversy and blockbuster trades to record-breaking contracts and elite on-field performance. Although his latest practice injury is a major setback for both him and the Washington Commanders, his résumé already places him among the best offensive tackles of his generation.
If he recovers successfully from his torn triceps, Tunsil is expected to remain a cornerstone of Washington’s offensive line for years to come.
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