Commanders need another blockbuster move if Terry McLaurin misses time

Terry McLaurin's importance to the Washington Commanders cannot be overstated. That's also why there is significant concern around his uncertain injury status heading into Week 4 and potentially beyond.

The veteran wide receiver got hurt in the third quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders. McLaurin was initially diagnosed with a quad injury, but the wideout is seeking other opinions. Most notably, from the country's top core muscle specialist, which indicates this is far more complex than initially feared.

Head coach Dan Quinn didn't offer more information other than that McLaurin wouldn't practice on Wednesday and there would be no further update until Friday's final designations. Fans weren't expecting anything less, but the general manager should already be thinking of contingency plans if the second-team All-Pro is forced to the sidelines.

Commanders should contemplate another trade if Terry McLaurin misses time

Peters leaves nothing to chance. He's already made moves to offset other injuries. Given the wideout options available if McLaurin cannot go for a few weeks, another blockbuster move cannot be dismissed entirely.

The Commanders don't have much in the way of disposable draft capital right now. Trades for Marshon Lattimore, Deebo Samuel Sr., and Laremy Tunsil have decreased the Commanders' flexibility. At the same time, Peters is striving to maximize Jayden Daniels' rookie contract. If that means taking a few more risks, especially if McLaurin is out of commission, it's something to consider.

Washington's front-office leader could find another 30-something wideout to fill the void, but it wouldn't move the needle all that much. He could rely on the options available and call someone like Tay Martin or undrafted rookie Ja'Corey Brooks up from the practice squad. That would be underwhelming, but it seems the likeliest option nonetheless.

A more drastic measure would be making another trade. It's not ideal, but the Commanders have put their chips on the table. They need to react if McLaurin is unavailable, or worse, is placed on injured reserve. Peters has the cap space, so this is all about how much he'd be willing to give up in a potential move.

Of course, all this is hypothetical at the moment. McLaurin hasn't been ruled out yet. He's getting several different opinions from leading specialists before determining the next step. The Commanders will be on hand to support him every step of the way, and Peters will be ready to react accordingly.

Hopefully, it'll be good news on the health front for McLaurin. If not, Peters needs to think outside the box, and there could be a few enticing receiver options available for trade around the league at the right price.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.