The Washington Commanders have not been the dominant force many expected them to be this season, and a significant part of that story has been injuries. Dan Quinn’s team has repeatedly had to compete without its best players, a frustrating trend that is set to continue.
According to a recent report, Washington will face the Seattle Seahawks on Monday night without one of its biggest stars, and his absence could be even more prolonged.
When Can the Commanders Expect Terry McLaurin Back?
Ahead of Sunday’s early games, NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport reported that star wide receiver Terry McLaurin will be out for Monday’s contest. More significantly, he is in jeopardy of missing the next couple of games as well.
From @NFLGameDay Morning: The #Cowboys are in the market for an edge rusher before Tuesday at 4 pm; Meanwhile, #Commanders WR Terry McLaurin wasn’t placed on IR, but he’s out this week and likely next week. There is a chance he misses the #Dolphins game in Madrid, as well. pic.twitter.com/Na9qzEFDYo
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 2, 2025
“The Washington Commanders, we know they’re going to get Jayden Daniels, their starting quarterback, back,” Rapoport said. “Terry McLaurin, dealing with a quadriceps injury, (will be) out again. My understanding is he’s expected to be out next week as well. The third game, also could miss. They have a bye after that, so there is a possibility that McLaurin misses three games, here for Washington.”
This development continues what has been a forgettable season for the Ohio State product. The trouble began when his contract negotiations dragged late into the offseason before he ultimately secured a three-year extension worth up to $104.3 million, per Spotrac.
McLaurin has already missed four games with injuries this season, and he has not been a major factor when healthy, either. So far, he has hauled in just 13 receptions on 21 targets for 203 yards and one touchdown. His average of just 50.8 yards per game is the lowest mark of his seven-year career.
What Does This Injury Mean for the Commanders?
Following their 28-7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs, the Commanders fell to 3-5 on the season. This team has struggled to find the explosive identity that shocked the league and powered them to the NFC Championship Game last year.
Washington currently ranks 17th in points per game (23.4) and averages a mere 196.6 passing yards per game, the eighth-fewest in the NFL. Of course, much of that can be attributed to Jayden Daniels’ health, as the quarterback has missed three games already. Still, not having McLaurin at his best has also taken a significant toll on the team’s offensive production.
In his absence, Deebo Samuel has emerged as the team’s primary pass-catcher, logging 37 receptions for 326 yards and three touchdowns. Veteran tight end Zach Ertz has also stepped up, contributing 27 receptions for 245 yards and a team-high four scores.
Unfortunately for Washington, the schedule will not get any easier. After their Monday night matchup with the Seahawks, the Detroit Lions will visit the nation’s capital. Without their best weapon on the field, the Commanders’ postseason chances do not look solid right now.