Terry McLaurin's supreme confidence emboldens Commanders' forgotten WR

Losing Noah Brown for several weeks and potentially the entire season with an internal issue changes the Washington Commanders' wide receiver dynamic. Terry McLaurin believes a forgotten man has what it takes to step up at a critical stage of the campaign.

The Commanders acquired an insurance policy to compensate for Brown's enforced absence. They picked up K.J. Osborn off waivers following his release by the New England Patriots. Just how much he'll be able to help in Week 15 at the New Orleans Saints remains to be seen.

Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury could be relying on less heralded wideouts to make plays and boost the Commanders' playoff chances. McLaurin is in All-Pro contention, but he cannot do it alone. Others need to seize the moment when their respective numbers are called to ensure no momentum is lost.

Coommanders could get Dyami Brown more involved down the stretch

Washington will have a plan in place versus a decent-enough Saints defensive unit. McLaurin threw his support behind Dyami Brown as someone deserving of the opportunity to fill the void.

"I'm super proud to see how Dyami [Brown]'s grown over his time here. He's grown and really learned what it takes to be a pro. And the consistency and the work ethic he's put in over the last few years has been extremely evident. He hasn't necessarily gotten the opportunity to put that on full display. But we're here now, and I think he's gonna have that opportunity. He's done a great job during the offseason and the season of being more consistent. But now, it's time to continue to show that on the field. I'm excited to see him get that first play under his belt. You get him involved early, he can make a play for us."

- Terry McLaurin

The former third-round pick out of North Carolina has been on the fringes once again this season. Brown looked the part over the summer to cement his place on the 53-man roster. Unfortunately for the wideout, this has resulted in 27 receptions to date.

In fairness to Brown, he's improved when called upon. His 20 catches for 206 receiving yards are both career highs. The player's route success of 48.1 percent according to Pro Football Reference is his best since entering the league. The 107.9 passer rating when targeted is second only to his sophomore campaign.

Brown's always had the physical tools to be more impactful. Putting it all together in a competitive setting and earning the complete trust of coaches is the tricky part. The fact McLaurin spoke so highly of the pass-catcher is a glowing recommendation that inspires confidence.

There's also the small matter of Brown's contract status to factor into the equation. He's looking for a new deal in Washington or elsewhere this offseason. A strong end to the campaign would enhance his chances of an extended stay. Anything less will likely see his time in a Commanders' uniform conclude with little fanfare attached.

What comes next is down to Brown. If he can gain more involvement and accumulate early momentum when targets arrive, that could be enough to make a big statement. Whether Kingsbury feels comfortable enough increasing his workload in a high-stakes situation is another matter.

In all honesty, he might not have a choice.

More Commanders news and analysis