Terry McLaurin's status for Week 4 against the Atlanta Falcons will be a hot topic of discussion over the next few days. And perhaps unsurprisingly, Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn didn't do much to diminish the murkiness around the subject during his latest appearance in front of the media.
McLaurin went out of Washington's triumph over the Las Vegas Raiders with a reported quad issue. The Commanders did not need to rush him back into the lineup, given the score. However, the fact that the wide receiver is getting several different opinions on the extent of this complication is causing worry among the fan base.
Commanders forced into waiting game as Terry McLaurin seeks further information
Quinn, who confirmed that McLaurin would not practice on Wednesday, revealed there would be no further update until the final injury designations are confirmed on Friday. But according to Ian Rapoport from the NFL Network, the former Ohio State standout has sought the opinion of the country's expert in core muscle injuries before deciding on further action.
"Terry McLaurin will receive another opinion on his quad today, and he's received several -- including from Dr. Williams Meyers, the nation's expert in core muscle injuries. As of now, they believe it's a quad injury. But more tests coming, as his status is in doubt for Sunday."Ian Rapoport
A core muscle expert suggests there is something else bothering McLaurin. Perhaps a hernia, or maybe something else. Either way, it doesn't look especially promising.
The Commanders will roll with the punches, as they have over the last fortnight. This squad is experiencing more injuries than most, especially so early into the campaign. They are navigating things well, but losing a player of McLaurin's stature would be a body blow.
It's still a wait-and-see scenario. Other pass-catchers lower down the depth chart will get extra reps until McLaurin gets back to practice. It's something they're well-versed in, considering the second-team All-Pro missed the entire summer during his long contract standoff with the organization.
Noah Brown also missed Week 3, so the Commanders would be desperately short at the receiver spot if both he and McLaurin weren't available. This won't go unnoticed by Adam Peters, who'll be devising contingency plans for every eventuality.
For fans, it's a waiting game. They know how important McLaurin is to their chances. They also know that Peters will strike with conviction to find an alternative if the two-time Pro Bowler is out for an extended period.
It is impossible to determine for sure. However, the signs are looking pretty ominous, at least from the outside.