This is it. The big moment Terry McLaurin has been waiting for.
One could argue that nobody deserves the Washington Commanders' remarkable success this season more than McLaurin. He toiled through some difficult times, putting up outstanding numbers despite going through a carousel of quarterbacks. When others voiced their displeasure, the wide receiver stayed professional and led from the front.
Now, McLaurin is getting his reward.
The wideout has a good team around him. McLaurin is still a focal point and playing the best football of his professional career. He's also benefitted greatly from rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels' presence en route to Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro selections.
As is typically the case, McLaurin is more eager to praise others. In particular, the exceptional job head coach Dan Quinn has done to improve the culture within the locker room.
Terry McLaurin lauds Dan Quinn for superb impact on Commanders
The former third-round pick out of Ohio State lauded Quinn for allowing players to be themselves within an environment that allows everyone to flourish. Something McLaurin believes earned trust quickly and developed an exceptional mindset capable of overcoming every challenge.
"DQ (Dan Quinn), first and foremost, he’s a leader of men. Playing for a coach that allows you to be yourself within the culture is extremely empowering. When you have that type of trust within someone (coaches and teammates) that you see on a daily basis – sometimes more than your family – it’s really important when you go through the ups and downs of an NFL season. It’s a no-excuse mentality."Terry McLaurin via USA Today
McLaurin's been praying for this. The Commanders are a completely different outfit from the one that won just four games in Ron Rivera's final campaign. There is purpose and professionalism where once there was nothing but chaos. Each player and coach is working collaboratively with the same goals in mind.
The results were immediate and surprising to almost everyone outside the building. But listening to the likes of McLaurin, Daniels, Quinn, and linebacker Bobby Wagner speak this week, they always believed something like this was possible.
Things are only going to get better for the Commanders regardless of whether they reach the Super Bowl or not. They have plenty of salary-cap space to find free agents and they will be a coveted destination for the first time in decades. Adam Peters also has seven draft picks at his disposal to use as he sees fit.
McLaurin is a big part of this exciting future. The wide receiver has one more year remaining on his deal but should get an extension at some stage during the offseason. His relentless pursuit of greatness and constant ability to produce in the biggest moments are proof of his value. He's revered by his teammates and respected by his coaches. The definition of a franchise cornerstone.
This doesn't happen without Quinn. A bonafide leader of men who is bringing the best out of McLaurin and everyone else.
And this is just the start.