Terry McLaurin officially signs with Commanders

McLaurin was selected in the third round of the 2019 draft, with the 76th overall pick. He was brought in as familiar face to pair with Ohio State quarterback Dwayne Haskins, who Washington selected in the first round (15th overall) that year.

Under coach Jay Gruden, it was anticipated that McLaurin would primarily play special teams and “hopefully contribute” as part of Washington’s offensive attack. However, he exceeded expectations and became an immediate contributor for Washington’s offense. In his first game as a Redskin, he had five catches for 125 yards and a touchdown against the Philadelphia Eagles.

He continued this early success, scoring a touchdown in his next two games, and starting his career with three touchdowns in consecutive games.

McLaurin ended his rookie campaign with 58 catches, 919 yards and seven touchdowns.

McLaurin has proven to be a steady presence over his first three seasons, and it was long expected for the wideout to sign an extension. Despite having a carousel of quarterbacks, McLaurin has shown to be “QB-Proof” in terms of production.

Over his first 46 games, McLaurin has had eight different quarterbacks throw him the ball. Including, a different week one starter in all three of his seasons. Regardless, he has accumulated 222 catches, 3090 yards and 16 touchdowns.

However, McLaurin should be set up for success moving forward. The Washington Commanders traded two, third-round picks this offseason for Carson Wentz, who is under contract until 2024. The team also drafted former Penn State wide receiver Jahan Dotson in the first round, and have Curtis Samuel returning from injury. Meaning, on paper, he will be part of the most talented offense in his professional career.

With a more able-bodied QB, who is prone to throw the ball downfield, Washington is hopeful McLaurin’s production will pop this season. The pressure to produce weekly has also diminished, with a more well-rounded complement of receivers in the stable. All of these contributing factors have McLaurin poised for a big year.

The two-year captain has now signed on to lead the team throughout the 2025 season. The Commanders will host a press conference Wednesday, July 6 at 9am, to announce McLaurin’s extension.