Terry McLaurin isn't available for the Washington Commanders in Week 6 against the Chicago Bears. The prolific wide receiver is still working his way back from a quad/hip complication, and he has not practiced over the last three weeks. But according to one respected insider, that could be about to change.
McLaurin hasn't been absent from much football since being drafted. He's missed as many games this season as he did from 2019 to 2024. It isn't very reassuring, but the Commanders have done a nice job of finding the coping mechanisms needed without the second-team All-Pro.
The fact that McLaurin wasn't placed on injured reserve means the Commanders held out hope that the wideout could return within that four-week window. Based on the latest update from Tom Pelissero from the NFL Network, that could very well be the case.
Commanders could be getting Terry McLaurin back from injury in Week 7
Pelissero highlighted that McLaurin has a chance to be active for Washington's pivotal Week 7 trip to the Dallas Cowboys. Nothing is set in stone, but it seems like the former Ohio State standout has a fighting chance if nothing else.
"WR Terry McLaurin (quad), who's out for Monday's game against Chicago, has a chance to return to the field in Washington's Week 7 game against the Cowboys, NFL Network Insider Tom Pelissero reported on NFL GameDay Kickoff."NFL.com
It's a shorter week to prepare, so the first two days of practice will be telling. If McLaurin is held out or is only doing the bare minimum, that doesn't bode well for his chances.
However, if McLaurin can gradually ramp up his workload and hit his markers, that should provide the Commanders with enough confidence to suit him up at AT&T Stadium.
The Commanders are a better team with McLaurin on the field. He's an inspirational figure whom everyone looks to for leadership in critical moments. With Noah Brown and Deebo Samuel Sr. dealing with complications — although the latter is playing through the pain barrier — having the two-time Pro Bowler involved will be a considerable boost.
It's a step-by-step process, of course. The Commanders aren't in the business of risking their players if there is any doubt about their ability to be effective. But if McLaurin and stud right guard Sam Cosmi can get back for Washington's clash against their most bitter rival, that'll be enough to inspire more confidence.
For fans, it's a waiting game. But if Pelissero's report is accurate, there is light at the end of the tunnel.