Terry McLaurin has carried a heavy burden for years. The Washington Commanders have failed to find the right answers alongside the second-team All-Pro wide receiver, but this tide turned with the high-profile signing of Stefon Diggs.
And McLaurin knows it.
During a sideline interview in Washington's preseason victory over the Miami Dolphins, McLaurin was bullish about the receiver room now that Diggs is on board. And the Ohio State product believes his new running mate can make things a whole lot easier for quarterback Jayden Daniels in a critical Year 3 of his professional career.
Terry McLaurin knows what a difference Stefon Diggs can make to the Commanders
And that is the primary objective above all else if the Commanders want to bounce back during the 2026 campaign.
"Obviously with me and (Stefon) Diggs. Adding Diggs is huge for us. I think we're all going to be able to feed off one another. We're go-to guys. We're just looking forward to being weapons for Jayden (Daniels). The more weapons you've got on the field, the easier it makes the quarterback's job."
It's not hard to see why.
McLaurin did not get to play with versatile wideout Deebo Samuel Sr. much last season due to injury. Even so, one could make a strong case that Diggs is the best receiver partner he's ever had in Washington.
The previous accomplishments Diggs brings to the table need no introduction. Even on a snap count with the New England Patriots last season coming off a torn ACL, the four-time Pro Bowler still managed to go over the 1,000-yard receiving barrier.
Diggs is a quarterback's best friend. He gets open quickly and has elite vision to spot soft spots in zone coverage. He's a technician over short to intermediate areas of the field, and the early chemistry being built with Daniels since his arrival only whets the appetite further.
Having McLaurin on the opposite side to draw attention away will only provide more opportunities to flourish.
The former Maryland standout's first preference was always a homecoming to Washington. Diggs was even willing to accept a very team-friendly contract to get his wish, and he genuinely believes in the project.
Getting the chance to work with McLaurin and Daniels is just an added bonus.
Diggs doesn't solve every problem in Washington; far from it. What he does provide is another highly productive pass-catcher to take the pressure off in the big moments. His growing reputation as a leader and mentor should also benefit the Commanders' young pass-catchers enormously.
McLaurin can already see the impact Diggs could have. All of Washington's big hitters need to stay healthy, especially after the recent blow involving left tackle Laremy Tunsil. If they can, this new wideout duo could be among the most productive this franchise has had in years.
The fear factor is back. Diggs is a big reason why.
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