5 players the Commanders can't afford to lose to injury in 2024
By Dean Jones
Terry McLaurin - Commanders WR
Terry McLaurin is the heart and soul of the Washington Commanders. The veteran wide receiver is a locker room alpha, one of the team's best on-field performers, and an integral presence within the community. This is not going to change under the new regime.
McLaurin remained a model of consistency as all around him crumbled last season. The veteran remained highly determined despite others throwing in the towel long before the campaign concluded. He went over 1,000 receiving yards once again and cemented his status as one of the most underrated pass-catchers anywhere in the league.
Hopes are high that McLaurin can keep up his exceptional production with a more prolific supporting cast. He'll have another new quarterback. But this time, it comes with long-term potential attached.
Jayden Daniels will rely upon McLaurin heavily during his important transition from college to the pros. His route-running and veteran savviness to find soft spots in coverage will be invaluable to the rookie signal-caller. If this relationship flourishes, it won't be much longer before the Commanders make strides.
The former third-round selection out of Ohio State is integral to Washington's chances of becoming a surprise most don't see coming next season. He's experienced almost nothing but losing since entering the NFL. Therefore, he'll be striving with everything he has to help get this storied franchise off its knees and back where it belongs.
Losing McLaurin for any extended period through injury would be a significant dent in the team's plans. The Commanders have Jahan Dotson and rookie Luke McCaffrey as their projected starters alongside the Pro Bowler. Whether they have enough to become a legitimate No. 1 receiving threat in this scenario is highly debatable.
Fortunately for the Commanders, the wideout hasn't missed a game in three seasons. McLaurin's been absent from the gameday lineup just three times over his career - two of which occurred during his rookie year in 2017. Something those in power will be hoping continues throughout the upcoming campaign.