Terry McLaurin has established himself as the best Redskins wide receiver. The third-round pick may even be the best offensive rookie in the NFL this season.
While the Redskins’ two first-round picks, quarterback Dwayne Haskins and pass rusher Montez Sweat, have yet to make their mark, McLaurin is quickly becoming the face the of the Redskins.
Sunday, against the woeful Miami Dolphins, McLaurin was efficient per usual. He caught four passes on seven targets — one drop — for 100 yards and two touchdowns. He now has two 100-yard outings in five career games. Again that’s two more than former 2016 first-round pick Josh Doctson had in four seasons with the Redskins.
Play #1: The Head Fake
McLaurin made his mark early in the game, giving the Redskins their first touchdown. It was a thing of beauty, as he got separation from fellow rookie Dolphins cornerback Ken Webster with a quick head bob, selling a crossing route before cutting up the field.
Keenum found him running the post for the score to give the Redskins a 7-0 lead.
Play #2: Slot Fade
McLaurin scored his second touchdown in the third quarter off a slot fade. His speed was too much for the slot corner who tried to cut off the outside corner route but McLaurin turned it up the field for a smooth touchdown grab before the safety could get over the top.
Play #3: The Pivotal Route & Catch
He dropped what could have been a huge gain as he had the defender beat, but didn’t see the football through. He made up for it on the next drive with the Redskins backed up at their own 1-yard line.
His body control helped him beat a hard jam, forcing the defender to try to recover, but McLaurin got the separation he needed for Keenum to deliver the pass for the first down and breathing room.
Play #4: The Play that Wasn’t
Even on a bad throw by Keenum, McLaurin’s route-running abilities were highlighted. He broke quickly inside avoiding the outside leverage and with the safety coming down at a bad angle, all Keenum needed to do was place the ball out in front and McLaurin had daylight.
Joining Good Company
McLaurin has established as the go to guy. One that Keenum trusts him over veteran Paul Richardson Jr. in a critical moment. It’s no question now who the No. 1 wide receiver on the Redskins.
Through five games, McLaurin has 38 receptions for 403 yards and five touchdowns. He is in good company with the amazing start.
The Redskins have find a diamond in the rough in McLaurin. While everyone waits for Haskins to assume his spot as a starter, his college teammate has stole the spotlight in Washington. As of right now, Terry McLaurin not Haskins is the face of the Redskins’ future.
