Redskins QB Case Keenum on rookie Terry McLaurin: “He’s special”

At the end of the day, wins are the only things that matter. But in a lost season, the Redskins must cherish the little victories. And they have one in rookie WR Terry McLaurin.

The race is on to find the perfect nickname for Washington Redskins rookie wide receiver Terry McLaurin. There have been countless entries. Some favor the alliteration route, suggesting Touchdown Terry or Turbo Terry. Some revert to imagery, and pick names which detail his smooth, sudden route running. Others go with the cliche: Scary Terry (Don’t be cliche).

For McLaurin’s teammates in Washington, however, the young gun doesn’t need a nickname. Because his play speaks for itself well enough.

Having played in five of Washington’s six games thus far in 2019, McLaurin has logged 408 yards and five touchdowns on 23 catches. He’s on pace for approximately 69 catches, 1,224 yards, and 15 touchdowns. And while those scoring numbers are sure to regress, McLaurin has cemented his spot as Washington’s top receiver. And not only that, but one of the most exciting ascending pass catchers in the NFL.

Five games into his NFL career, McLaurin already has two 100-yard games, three games with five or more catches, and a multi-touchdown outing, which occurred this past week against Miami. McLaurin is far surpassing his expected output as a third-round pick, and his quarterback offered some weighted words on the young standout in his press conference on Thursday.

Per NBC Sports Mid-Atlantic’s J.P. Finlay, Redskins quarterback Case Keenum described McLaurin as “special”, and said that McLaurin is already among the best receivers in the league.

The Redskins passing game hasn’t always been consistent in 2019, but McLaurin has been a steady constant at the wide receiver position, and it’s clear that Keenum appreciates the utility McLaurin has provided. The Ohio State product has already reached the marks of a veteran, and once his former college quarterback is given his chance, their pre-existing chemistry could prove to be explosive.

For now, however, Keenum is the one throwing the passes, and last week against the Dolphins, he connected with McLaurin for two touchdowns. On Sunday, he’ll look to sustain that success against a more imposing 49ers defense. One thing is certain: He’ll need his special weapon to make it happen.