Terry McLaurin gains 1,200 yards, 100 catches
It was a frustrating 2025 campaign for Terry McLaurin. The wide receiver was embroiled in a contract standoff with the Washington Commanders, which restricted his preparations. He got hurt early, and the team's hopes were gone long before he returned.
McLaurin was stung just as much as fans. He's been working hard to right this wrong, putting together an exceptional offseason with no complications whatsoever.
The former Ohio State standout will be the focal point of Washington's passing attack. New offensive coordinator David Blough has already made that clear, and there is an improved supporting cast around him that should also benefit the pass-catcher.
Stefon Diggs is arguably the best running mate McLaurin has ever had. Jayden Daniels is back under center, and the Commanders have a dynamic tight end in Chig Okonkwo.
Everything is in place for a big campaign from the second-team All-Pro, and fans will be expecting a major statement from McLaurin before attention turns to his supposedly uncertain future.
Commanders have two players with double-digit sacks
Daronte Jones wants to bring pressure. This will be the key to determining how successful his defense proves to be, and general manager Adam Peters spared no expense in securing the improvements needed throughout his third offseason at the helm.
The unit will be led by Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson. They were high-profile arrivals in free agency, and even though both have dealt with injuries late in the summer, the Commanders will be counting on them heavily.
Oweh is the marquee man. The Commanders gave him $96 million with the view of making him a three-down threat. He's also got experience in a 3-4 front, which will only help.
Chaisson bet on himself with a one-year deal in Washington. He's got the urgency to make a statement en route to a bigger payday next year. And after fighting back from early career setbacks, complacency will not be an option.
Big things are expected. Chaisson and Oweh both reaching the double-digit sack mark would be a tremendous place to start.
Jayden Daniels finishes top four in NFL MVP voting
Jayden Daniels was the toast of the entire NFL as a rookie. His first season for the ages propelled the quarterback to superstar status, and the Commanders had finally found the franchise-caliber presence they were looking for at football's most crucial position.
But things can change quickly.
Daniels' second season was a disaster. He turned out just seven times, finishing four games, due to a myriad of frustrating injury problems. It also brought questions about his durability for the first time in his football life.
This brought out a different side of Daniels this offseason.
He was focused, with a new steely determination in his eyes. Daniels was leading from the front, displaying the work ethic and leadership that teammates naturally followed.
More importantly, he's stayed healthy.
Talking a big game isn't Daniels' style. The former Arizona State star lets his performances on the field speak for him, and don't be surprised if he reminds the league precisely who he is this season.
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