Terry McLaurin just reset expectations for Deebo Samuel with one quote

Terry McLaurin is returning for the Washington Commanders showdown with the Denver Broncos on Sunday Night Football. Just how much he’ll be able to contribute after so long out of the lineup remains to be seen, but having his inspirational presence to count on is only going to help.

McLaurin’s task wasn’t made easier by reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year cornerback Patrick Surtain II making his way back from a torn pectoral muscle. But the second-team All-Pro wide receiver is hoping to become a distraction that allows others to flourish.

And there is one playmaker, in particular, who could be in line to benefit more than most.

Terry McLaurin is confident his presence can help Deebo Samuel thrive

The former Ohio State standout believes his ability to stretch the field can help free up more space for Samuel underneath. McLaurin thinks the pair complements each other well, and even though they haven’t been on the field together much, the two-time Pro Bowler is eager to make up for some lost time.

“Deebo [Samuel] can play all the positions in our offense, but having a guy like myself who stretches the field and opens up some of the underneath things and can make plays, I think it definitely helps him. When you’ve got a receiver group with certain attributes, when you have them all together, it kind of brings the picture more to life.”

Terry McLaurin via The Athletic

The Commanders traded for Samuel to finally provide McLaurin with a prolific running mate. He’s had to shoulder a heavy burden amid Washington’s injury crisis, and he’s performed well in difficult circumstances. Now, the alpha in Washington’s receiver room is back, which will alleviate some pressure from his teammates’ shoulders along the way.

If Surtain shadows McLaurin as expected, Samuel’s role will become more integral. The Broncos consistently bring pressure, leading the NFL in sacks by a comfortable margin. Getting the football out of quarterback Marcus Mariota’s hands quickly is imperative, so expect to see plenty of slants and screens in the South Carolina product’s direction.

This season hasn’t gone as anyone associated with the Commanders expected. Injuries haven’t helped their cause, but things seemed off long before the team’s nosedive of six straight defeats. There’s been very little to cheer, so McLaurin and Samuel resuming their partnership provides a glimmer of hope amid the almost constant doom and gloom.

And who knows, perhaps this can be the catalyst for better fortunes for Washington in its remaining five games. Stranger things have happened.