Commanders Offensive Tackle Lucas Niang Suffers Season-Ending ACL Tear

The Washington Commanders suffered a significant setback in their 2025 preseason opener with a 48-18 loss to the New England Patriots, compounded by the season-ending ACL injury of offensive tackle Lucas Niang. Niang, who signed with the Commanders on July 30 as a depth addition following Nate Herbig's retirement, tore his ACL in his preseason debut, ruling him out for the entire season. Originally a 2020 third-round pick by the Kansas City Chiefs, Niang's career has been hampered by injuries, including a torn pectoral muscle in 2021, and he had most recently been on the Chiefs' practice squad before joining Washington. With starters Laremy Tunsil and Andrew Wylie healthy, the Commanders now face challenges filling the depth behind them, likely prompting roster moves to address the left tackle vacancy. General manager Adam Peters may consider available free agents like former Browns tackle Jedrick Wills to bolster the offensive line, which has already been impacted by other injuries, including guard Sam Cosmi's ACL recovery. Head coach Dan Quinn expressed disappointment but praised Niang's efforts during his short time with the team, emphasizing the ongoing need to strengthen the offensive line ahead of the regular season.