Nobody deserves the success achieved by the Washington Commanders this season more than Terry McLaurin. However, he doesn't want this hype train to slow down during the playoffs.
McLaurin's been a revelation. The wideout managed to put up superb numbers despite no consistent quarterback presence. Now that the Commanders have a legitimate franchise-caliber performer in rookie phenom Jayden Daniels, it's taken the Ohio State product's game to even greater heights.
Another 1,000-yard receiving season was almost guaranteed for McLaurin, who's been a model of consistency since entering the league. The biggest improvement centers on his touchdowns, breaking the franchise record for receiving scores with 13 during the regular season. Unsurprisingly, the pass-catcher and Daniels were the only two Commanders players to be named Pro Bowl starters as a result of their outstanding efforts.
That's nice to look back on. But it means nothing now.
The playoffs have arrived. Everyone gets a clean slate. Washington emerged as the NFL's surprise package in 2024. That doesn't count for much if they get bounced out in the wildcard round at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
There will be nerves. There will be excitement. There will be apprehension. But for the Commanders, relying on what got them this far is essential in their quest to go deep into the knockout rounds.
Terry McLaurin has full confidence in the Commanders' playoff chances
That was the message from McLaurin to his squad. He knows this is just the start. If they can stay on an even keel and continue to come through in clutch situations, the former third-round pick believes a complete performance won't be too far behind.
"We’re just looking to be us. I think we’re looking to play a style of football where we’re aggressive early, we’re consistent and we can play a style of ball that’s complementary. If we do that, coupled with the winning time moments … we’ll like where we’re at I believe. This is what it’s all about playing for it all right now. It’s a new season. Everyone is zero and zero. It’s gonna come down to execution. The great thing for us is we’ve had multiple reps throughout the season where we’ve proven that we can make the plays when we have to make them. It’s just putting it all together now so we can play a complete game."Terry McLaurin via SI
Consider Washington's playoff rivals well and truly warned.
Things get tighter in the playoffs. There is much more on the line and the pressurized setting represents a sink-or-swim scenario. It's a trip into the unknown for this revamped roster, but general manager Adam Peters found the right blend of youth and experience to prepare for this potential eventuality.
McLaurin's played just one postseason game during his glittering career, which is criminal. Even so, his proven credentials to thrive when the lights are brightest will be a significant asset for offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury to utilize at Raymond James Stadium and hopefully beyond.
This is what McLaurin's been waiting for. The chance to mix it with the NFL's elite on a competitive team that can hang with anybody when firing on all cylinders. And with Daniels under center, the Commanders are never out of the fight.
After languishing in mediocrity or worse for so long, McLaurin is savoring every moment of this newfound belief. But make no mistake, he's not going to let standards slip just because the Commanders are way ahead of schedule.
That's what prominent leaders do. And the NFL is on notice.