Commanders veteran wide receiver Terry McLaurin is offering perspective to quarterback Jayden Daniels as the team works through a wave of injuries.
ASHBURN, Va. — Terry McLaurin, now in his seventh NFL season, said Thursday he understands how discouraging it can be for young players, like Jayden Daniels, to deal with setbacks.
“Sometimes you feel like the world is ending when you’re hurt… You have to try to keep perspective of finding that joy in the middle of the turmoil,” McLaurin said.
He added that dwelling on frustration can drain the energy needed for recovery.
“That energy you are taking away from harboring those feelings internally is the same type of energy you’ll need to wake up the next day and put into your rehab,” he said.
McLaurin said he’s confident Daniels will emerge stronger.
“This won’t be the last time he faces adversity in the league,” McLaurin said. “I think it’s going to make him a better player… a better man.”
With tight end Zach Ertz sidelined for the rest of the season after he tore his ACL against the Vikings, Washington will rely on depth at the position.
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury said the group must be ready to “make the play and do the right thing” when opportunities come.
Tight ends John Bates and Ben Sinnott said they’re eager to step up.
Bates called it “exciting” to showcase the unit’s abilities, while Sinnott said he’s gained confidence as the game has “slowed down” for him.
“The more football I’m able to play, the better I can get,” he said.
Bates also noted that the tight end room has benefited from learning alongside Ertz, whom he described as “a pro’s pro” in his daily approach.