The move aims to bolster the offensive line after starting left tackle Laremy Tunsil suffered a torn triceps, sidelining him for most of the 2026 season.
The Washington Commanders are bringing in much-needed experience to their offensive line. The team is set to sign former Pro Bowl left tackle D.J. Humphries to a one-year contract. This strategic move directly addresses a significant void left by the recent injury to star left tackle Laremy Tunsil, according to reporting by CBS Sports - NFL.
Tunsil, a crucial asset for the Commanders, sustained a torn triceps during a practice session on August 8. The injury occurred while he was attempting to block a bull rush from edge rusher Odafe Oweh, leading to the expectation that Tunsil will miss a substantial portion of the 2026 season. His long-term absence immediately heightened the team's need for additional talent in the trenches.
Humphries becomes available to Washington as a free agent, offering a veteran presence. While once considered among the league's elite tackles, his role with the Commanders is anticipated to be one of depth rather than an immediate starter, providing valuable competition and experience to the unit.
Laremy Tunsil's Devastating Injury Timeline and Impact
Laremy Tunsil's torn triceps injury, suffered during practice on August 8, has created a major setback for the Washington Commanders. The starting left tackle required surgery to repair the damage and faces the risk of missing a significant portion, if not the entirety, of the 2026 NFL campaign. This unexpected turn of events forced the Commanders to quickly reassess their offensive line resources.
The timing of Tunsil's injury was particularly unfortunate for the organization. The Commanders had just secured his future with a landmark two-year, $60.2 million extension, making him the highest-paid left tackle in the NFL. This deal marked a career milestone, as Tunsil became the first player at his position to command an average annual salary of $30 million, resetting the left tackle market for the second time in his career.
D.J. Humphries' Journey from Pro Bowl to Depth Role
D.J. Humphries brings a noteworthy resume to Washington, including a Pro Bowl selection from half a decade ago, when he was recognized as one of football's premier tackles. However, his performance has seen a dip in recent years. In the four seasons since his Pro Bowl nod, Humphries has only played more than eight games in a single year once.
Unable to consistently replicate the high-level production from his stellar 2021 campaign, Humphries is now set to join his fourth team in the last four years. He previously appeared in two games with the Kansas City Chiefs in 2024 and was most recently a member of the Los Angeles Rams, for whom he suited up for eight games last year. His signing provides crucial depth and veteran leadership to the Commanders' offensive line.
Commanders' Offensive Line Outlook and Humphries' Projected Role
Following Tunsil's injury, Coach Dan Quinn outlined the Commanders' immediate plans for the left tackle position. Brandon Coleman is slated to start at left tackle for as long as Tunsil remains sidelined. Josh Conerly Jr., meanwhile, is firmly entrenched as the second-string option on the right side of the offensive line.
While Coach Quinn initially indicated that the team wasn't actively seeking outside help for the offensive line, the signing of Humphries signals a shift in that approach. It underscores the severity of Tunsil's absence and the need for experienced backups. Humphries is expected to compete for a backup role, likely with second-teamer Andrew Wylie, and will also contribute valuable locker room experience to the squad.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is D.J. Humphries?
D.J. Humphries is a veteran offensive tackle who was a Pro Bowl selection half a decade ago. He is signing a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders after playing for the Chiefs and Rams in recent years.
What is Laremy Tunsil's injury?
Laremy Tunsil suffered a torn triceps during practice on August 8. The injury required surgery and is expected to keep him out for most of the 2026 NFL season, impacting the Washington Commanders' offensive line significantly.
What is D.J. Humphries' expected role with the Washington Commanders?
D.J. Humphries is expected to join the Commanders as a depth piece, providing veteran experience and competition for a backup role. He is not projected to be an immediate starter, as Brandon Coleman will fill in for the injured Laremy Tunsil at left tackle.
How long is Laremy Tunsil expected to be out for the Commanders?
Laremy Tunsil is expected to miss most of the 2026 NFL season due to his torn triceps injury, which required surgery. This creates a long-term absence for the Washington Commanders' starting left tackle.