Another bombshell trade by the Commanders would undoubtedly have repercussions.
While other teams were focusing on free-agent signings, the Washington Commanders pulled off another surprise deal for a productive veteran. Second-year general manager Adam Peters took a different approach, negotiating a massive deal with the Houston Texans for Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil.
The Commanders made a major declaration of intent. They are putting all of their chips in the middle with quarterback Jayden Daniels on his rookie contract. They are prepared to win now and will go to any length to make the most of this Super Bowl opportunity.
Unfortunately, this resulted in some collateral harm.
Tunsil’s arrival was never going to be welcome news for everyone. That’s the cost of progressing through the league. Fortunately for popular veteran Cornelius Lucas, his 2024 production provided him with a good foundation from which to pursue another opportunity.
Cornelius Lucas takes chances elsewhere after Commanders’ trade for Laremy Tunsil
Following their acquisition of Tunsil, the Commanders had no use for Lucas. That may be a bit harsh on the dynamic swing tackle, but it’s all part of the job. He signed a contract with the Cleveland Browns, which formally terminated his time in Washington.
According to Jeremy Fowler of ESPN, the Browns have offered Lucas a two-year contract worth up to $10 million. This is also an excellent opportunity to begin, depending on Dawand Jones’ health.
At the absolute least, Lucas becomes an important rotational player who can slip into the lineup at either tackle position with little hassle. He has built out an impressive niche for himself in Washington. The AFC North club hopes the current trend continues.
Lucas received a nice compensation after impressing when called upon in 2024. Over the first several weeks of the season, the veteran alternated reps with rookie Brandon Coleman on Daniels’ blindside. It was a recipe for success until the first-year pro was ready to take on the majority of the tasks.
Last season, the former Kansas State standout played 464 snaps, committing three penalties and recording one sack. Lucas received an impressive 79.1 pass-blocking grade for his efforts, which was recognized by a willing suitor such as the Browns.
Coleman’s future is uncertain. The Commanders now have a new left tackle, an immediate upgrade capable of offering reliable protection against even the most formidable opponents. This implies that a position switch for the TCU product is on the way, but where it will be is the subject of much debate among fans.
Perhaps it will be at left guard, as Nick Allegretti moves to the right with Sam Cosmi sidelined. Perhaps there will be a move to right tackle with Andrew Wylie moving inside. There is no way to know for sure, but it will be intriguing to see evolve during the summer.
Lucas was surplus to requirements in Washington, but he will be able to go with dignity. He was a model professional, a great leader, and a consistent performer. That was all anyone could have wished for when he joined the franchise in 2020.
What about the commanders? They’re going for broke. Trading for Tunsil is the latest evidence of Peters’ deliberate boldness in keeping Washington among the top Super Bowl candidates.
