Commanders News: Chase Young, Terry McLaurin, Phidarian Mathis and Montez Sweat
By Dean Jones
Commanders WR Terry McLaurin's importance
If the Washington Commanders are going to mount a potential playoff push next season, they need their established stars all healthy and firing. And if the young studs can also enhance on-field influence, it's all systems go.
Terry McLaurin has rapidly emerged into a true alpha - someone that sets the tone and leads by example. The wide receiver is keen to embrace Eric Bieniemy's philosophy in pursuit of progression, which the Commanders are hoping can become the catalyst behind improved fortunes in 2023.
When discussing the Commanders in a recent feature, Adam Rank of NFL.com highlighted McLaurin's importance to Washington's aspirations. He also hailed the former third-round pick out of Ohio State as one of the league's most underappreciated players.
"He's one of the most underappreciated players in the league right now, having logged three straight 1,000-yard seasons despite Washington's revolving door at the game's most important position. It's like vintage Allen Robinson, where McLaurin's production is all the more amazing when you consider the number -- and caliber -- of quarterbacks delivering him the football. Can Howell-to-McLaurin become the connection that sticks?"
- Adam Rank, NFL.com
The underrated tag might be something McLaurin gets from the national media, but those who follow the Commanders know what an indispensable member of the roster he is. If his relationship with Sam Howell flourishes, then one would be hard-pressed to suggest anything other than major improvements.