3 reasons the Washington Commanders will beat the Browns in Week 5
Terry McLaurin can dominate
A lot of the NFL doesn't seem to understand just how good Terry McLaurin is. He's often looked at as a No. 1 wide receiver, but not in the true top class where the other greats are. This is a mistake, especially considering he's caught passes from 12 different quarterbacks in a span of just six seasons.
While doing that, he has quietly gone over 1,000 receiving yards in four consecutive seasons while catching passes from guys like Sam Howell and Taylor Heinicke. It may seem like a while ago, but this dubious list of signal-callers also includes Carson Wentz, Case Keenum, and even Alex Smith.
He finally has a guy that appears to be an elite quarterback throwing him the ball. It seems not only like he and Jayden Daniels are developing a rapport together, but it seems as if the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft is slowly realizing just what a prolific weapon he's got at his disposal.
The former third-round pick out of Ohio State should get on the board with a touchdown for his third week in a row against the Cleveland Brown. If the past two weeks turn out to be more than a fluke, McLaurin should have a chance at a few deep balls to put him over the 100-yard receiving mark.
McLaurin has always been a great teammate, but he hasn't yet got the recognition he deserves as a player of his caliber. If Daniels is around for a while, that will change.
The Daniels-McLaurin link is going to slowly become one of the better connections in the league. It's a trend that should continue to build this weekend against a team that the Commanders should handle.
It's no guarantee, especially with the likes of Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome II in the secondary. However, the absence of Noah Brown means McLaurin will be counted upon more than ever.