Terry McLaurin returning for Washington Commanders showdown with Denver Broncos sunday night footballHow much he will be able to contribute after being out of the lineup for so long remains to be seen, but relying on his inspirational presence will only help,
McLaurin’s job was not made easier by reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year cornerback Patrick Surtain II returning from a torn pectoral muscle. But the other team’s All-Pro wide receiver is hoping to be a distraction that allows others to flourish.
And there’s one playmaker in particular who may be in line to benefit more than most.
Terry McLaurin confident his presence can help Deebo Samuel moving forward
The former Ohio State player believes his ability to stretch the field can help free up more space down low for Samuel. McLaurin believes the pair complement each other well, and even though they haven’t seen much together on the field, the two-time Pro Bowler is eager to make up for some lost time.
“Debo (Samuel) can play all positions in our offense, but having a guy like me who stretches the field and opens up some downs and can make plays, I think it definitely helps him. When you have a receiver group with some attributes, when you put them all together, it makes the picture more alive.”
Terry McLaurin via The Athletic
The commanders eventually made a deal with Samuel to provide McLaurin with a great running mate. He shouldered a heavy burden amid Washington’s injury crisis and performed well in difficult situations. Now, the alpha is back in Washington’s receiver room, which will take some pressure off the shoulders of his teammates along the way.
If Surtain shadows McLaurin as expected, Samuel’s role will become more integral. The Broncos consistently bring pressure, leading the NFL in sacks by a comfortable margin. It’s imperative to get the football out of quarterback Marcus Mariota’s hands quickly, so expect to see a lot of tilts and screens in the direction of the South Carolina product.
This season has not been what anyone associated with the Commanders expected. Injuries haven’t helped his cause, but things were looking bad long before the team’s six consecutive losses. There are very few things to be happy about, so McLaurin and Samuel rekindling their partnership has provided a glimmer of hope amid the almost constant doom and gloom.
And who knows, maybe it could be the catalyst for better fortunes in Washington’s remaining five games. Stranger things have happened.
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