Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin Kevin C. Cox/GettyImages

Commanders star Terry McLaurin already showing why the holdout never mattered

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated Sep 4, 2025 9:00 AM ET

The jubilation and relief when Terry McLaurin ended his long contract standoff with the Washington Commanders lifted a dark cloud from the franchise. This was always the most likely outcome, but questions remained about how much the wide receiver would be ready for when Week 1 rolled around.

Preparations for Washington's regular-season opener against the New York Giants are well underway. And it didn't take long for head coach Dan Quinn to put his stamp of approval on McLaurin's progress.

McLaurin kept himself in shape while standing his ground in pursuit of another big payday. That gave him a solid foundation, but getting into true football shape is something else entirely. The only way that happens is with reps, and the former Ohio State standout missed a ton of those over mandatory minicamp, training camp, and the preseason.

Commanders are giving Terry McLaurin his usual practice workload before Week 1

That presents a roadblock for McLaurin to navigate. Quinn seemed highly optimistic when discussing the receiver before Wednesday's practice, proudly proclaiming that it's all systems go regarding the intensity of his workload.

Quinn added that McLaurin is looking strong, which should alleviate the fears of fans who were apprehensive about his ability to assume his typical duties against a formidable Giants defense. It'll be a wait-and-see scenario when the two-time Pro Bowler gets into a competitive setting where things matter more. At the same time, he's the ultimate professional with enough previous production to suggest complications will be kept to a minimum.

Dan Quinn said of LG Brandon Coleman and WR Terry McLaurin: "They'll get their normal amount of practice... both are doing really strong."
— John Keim (@john_keim) September 3, 2025

McLaurin might not be at optimum fitness levels in Week 1. His timing with quarterback Jayden Daniels might be slightly off. Even so, his mere presence on the field completely changes the dynamic for Kliff Kingsbury's offense.

Opposing coverage schemes naturally gravitate towards McLaurin. He's the alpha dog — one of the league's most accomplished pass-catchers who thrives in contested catch situations. Even if the individual numbers aren't there, his ability to free up space for others to thrive is equally beneficial if they meet their end of the bargain.

The second-team All-Pro might be on a snap count. He might not. But either way, the Commanders are a much better team when McLaurin's around the squad in any capacity.

McLaurin is not a half-measures guy. If he's healthy enough to suit up, it'll be all gas and no brakes. That's the elite mentality that got him this far, so he's not going to change strategy now just because it was a more turbulent offseason than he's experienced previously.

Tempering expectations would be wise initially. But that won't be for long if McLaurin has any say in the matter.

This article first appeared on Riggo's Rag and was syndicated with permission.

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