Terry McLaurin has emerged as the go-to guy for the Washington Football Team’s offense since being drafted in the third round in 2019. He has made his mark on the NFL despite playing with seven different quarterbacks since in two-plus seasons.
So there is no questioning how good the former Ohio State product is. This season he has already undergone a quarterback change when Ryan Fitzpatrick suffered a rib injury to pave the way for Taylor Heinicke.
For Heinicke to stay successful and remain the starting quarterback for the Washington Football Team, he may want to target McLaurin early and often. When he is open, get the ball to him. But, even when he isn’t open, he should get the ball to him.
McLaurin has an NFL-most seven contested catches through three games this season, according to Pro Football Focus.
To further stamp his ability to snag contest passes, McLaurin has the second-highest grade on contested catches this season.
McLaurin has 19 catches for 231 yards and one touchdown on 25 targets. That’s a 76% catch rate. Seven of those grabs are contested. That includes this impossible catch against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Washington head coach Ron Rivera wants Heinicke to be more of a game manager. But, maybe it’s time to let him rip a few more in the direction of McLaurin. Give No. 17 double digit targets like some of the other top wide receivers around the league.
Against the Giants in Week 2, he had 14 targets and came away with 11 catches for 107 yards and a score. He’s proven he can produce because he’s open even when he is covered.
