Rookie offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. will get a crash-course introduction to the NFL when the Commanders kick off their season Sunday against the Giants.
With prized rookie Abdul Carter joining Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux, the Giants’ defensive line is shaping up to be among the league’s best.
“People are going to try to go after him and see what he’s made of. And rightfully so because you’ve got a more experienced guy in Laremy (Tunsil) on the other side,” Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels said Wednesday after practice. “Everybody wants to see what the rookie is about.”
Conerly, the 29th overall pick in April’s draft, is expected to be featured at right tackle after beating out incumbent starter Andrew Wylie.
Commanders Praise Conerly’s Competitiveness
The Commanders spent much of this offseason hyping up the 6-foot-4, 315-pound Conerly, praising his competitive spirit. Daniels, the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, joked that he often finds himself reminding the stoic rookie to smile more.
“That’s kind of what I just told him,” Daniels said, “go out there and be free, have fun. But just know at the end of the day, people are going to try to come after you and try to expose you.
“They know this is your first (game). They may not think you’re ready, but I know he is.”
Conerly Impressed in the Preseason
Conerly stood out from the jump this summer, turning in an impressive performance in the preseason opener against the Patriots on Aug. 8.
According to PFF College, Conerly allowed only one pressure on 14 pass-blocking snaps. He was just as effective on the ground, turning in a run-blocking grade of 77.7.
CBS’ Sports Chris Trapasso commended Conerly’s performance.
“Long audition for Conerly Jr. to begin his NFL (preseason) career. He played 21 snaps and only gave up only gave up one hurry. As a run-blocker, his technical game shined. He latched on and drove defenders out of running lanes in the seven opportunities he had to do so,” he wrote.
Conerly Was an All-American in College
Conerly built a gaudy college resume at Oregon, where he started 14 games at left tackle in 2024 and was an AP Third Team All-American.
A pre-draft scouting report by NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein cited Conerly’s strong showing against Carter, who played for Penn State.
“He sees twists and blitzes developing and recovers with athleticism when beaten,” Zierlein wrote. “Conerly is young and needs more development, but he should become a good starter at tackle or guard.”
Conerly is projected as the Commanders’ future left tackle, a spot currently occupied by Tunsil. The five-time Pro Bowler was acquired from the Houston Texans in March for future draft compensation.
Commanders QB Jayden Daniels Expects Big Things From Rookie Lineman