The Washington Commanders may be riding high after a decisive Week 3 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders, but the win came with a major caveat: wide receiver Terry McLaurin’s health is now in serious question.
Terry McLaurin Injury Status
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McLaurin exited last week’s game with a quad injury, and his recovery has been the subject of growing concern. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported:
“No practice again today for Commanders RB Bill Croskey-Merritt and WR Terry McLaurin”
“Washington WR Terry McLaurin is uncertain to play Sunday vs. Atlanta due to his quad injury, per source. He still is seeking more information about the injury.”
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport added that McLaurin has sought multiple evaluations, including a consultation with Dr. William Meyers, one of the leading specialists in core muscle injuries. While initial indications point to a quad issue, additional testing is ongoing.
McLaurin has now missed both Wednesday and Thursday practices, putting his Week 4 availability against the Falcons very much in doubt.
Commanders’ Offense Facing Uncertainty
The Commanders’ offense has been one of the league’s surprises through three weeks, averaging just under 30 points per game despite quarterback Jayden Daniels being sidelined with a knee sprain. Backup Marcus Mariota filled in admirably against the Raiders, but losing McLaurin for any stretch of time would be a significant blow.
Even in limited action last week, McLaurin led the team with 74 receiving yards. He nearly broke off a 57-yard touchdown, only for the play to be overturned on review—an especially painful moment for fantasy managers who lost by a narrow margin.
Adding to Washington’s injury woes, rookie running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt (knee), tight end John Bates (calf/groin), and wideout Noah Brown (groin/knee) also missed practice this week.
Fantasy Football Impact
For fantasy purposes, McLaurin’s early 2025 output has been underwhelming relative to his massive three-year, $96 million extension signed this offseason. Through three games, the Ohio State alum has just 149 receiving yards and no touchdowns on 10 catches. His target share has dipped to 18.8% compared to 23.2% in 2024, raising concerns about volume in addition to health.
If McLaurin suits up Sunday, he should be viewed as a risky flex option rather than the WR1 fantasy managers drafted him to be. The upside remains—especially once Daniels returns—but the combination of injuries and diminished usage lowers his floor considerably.
Bottom line: McLaurin still projects as a top-20 fantasy receiver rest of season, but Week 4 will test managers’ patience and lineup decisions.