ASHBURN, Va. — After playing over 5,500 snaps in 100 NFL games alongside 12 different quarterbacks, four offensive coordinators, and three head coaches, Terry McLaurin finds himself in unfamiliar territory. For the first time in his professional career, the standout receiver for the Washington Commanders is facing the challenge of missing consecutive games due to an injury, marking a “challenging stretch” compounded by a long absence during the offseason.
At 30 years old, McLaurin expressed his struggle since sustaining a quad injury last month. “It’s tough,” he remarked in his first comments since the setback. “Adversity, I’ve had that in my life. I think what was unique was having those situations happen back to back.” During his time away, the Commanders achieved one victory but also faced three losses.
His injury occurred during a critical moment in a Week 3 matchup against the Raiders when he made a 56-yard catch and did not return. Prior to this season, McLaurin had only missed three games in his entire career, with the last absence dating back to 2020. This season has been notably different, especially given the circumstances surrounding his injury: after a contract dispute, which kept him from training camp, he returned to the team just in time for the season opener.
Before his injury, McLaurin managed to catch 10 of 17 targets for 149 yards in three games, yet he still awaits his first touchdown of the season. McLaurin acknowledged the physical hurdles he faced, particularly regarding being in game shape after missing significant practice time. “I felt really good when I got back out there on the field,” he said, “but I kind of felt the stress on my body a little bit.”
The emotional aspect of his recovery is equally vital, with McLaurin admitting he had tough days thinking about the frustrating challenges he faced. He credited the support from teammates, coaches, and loved ones for helping him navigate this rough patch. Looking ahead, McLaurin is eager to return, expressing that he sometimes gets ahead of himself with expectations but understands that life’s trajectory can be unpredictable.
Last season, McLaurin was instrumental in leading the Commanders to a 12-5 record and an NFC Championship Game appearance. He made key caught passes, including a pivotal touchdown to secure a win against the Bengals. However, tensions around contract negotiations created a ripple effect throughout his game, culminating in this season’s struggles.
As he inches closer to a return, which is projected for an upcoming game against the Chiefs, McLaurin noted that while he felt close to returning earlier, it was only recently that he felt ready to hit the field. “I’m an explosive athlete,” he explained, underscoring the importance of feeling completely fit before competing.
Washington has faced a spate of injuries this season, magnifying the impact of McLaurin’s absence on the offense. With limited depth in the receiver position, his return is anticipated to revitalize the Commanders. Recently, the team traded for Deebo Samuel and re-signed Noah Brown, but both players have also dealt with injuries, leaving the offense feeling the strain.
The evolving dynamics on the field have seen defenses adapt, attacking Washington differently in the absence of McLaurin and Brown. As the Commanders look forward to the potential return of key receivers like McLaurin in their upcoming game, the challenge now shifts to regaining their chemistry with starting quarterback Marcus Mariota. McLaurin noted the importance of timing as they work to reconnect on the field.
In the wake of these challenges, the Commanders maintain a sense of hope and readiness as they prepare for a critical moment in their season, emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of adversity.