Wide receivers, like the Washington Commanders‘ Terry McLaurin, develop a rhythm once they catch a number of throws in succession.
They will be difficult to stop once they are in the groove and the defense better put two defenders on any receiver starting to heat up.
Great ball placement also helps them rack up the receiving yards.
Though they are world-class athletes, putting the ball at the perfect spot makes it easier for them to field balls.
That said, it’s hard not to marvel at McLaurin’s volume of work throughout his first three seasons.
He is averaging over 1,000 yards after three seasons and has 16 touchdowns.
The former Ohio State standout is achieving these numbers even if the odds are not in his favor.
Terry McLaurin in his career
• ran 1,629 routes
• was targeted on only 357
• and only 62% of them were catchablethat takes a certain kind of patience
he'll need it in 2022 as well
Carson Wentz has ranked dead last in accuracy over the last two years combined (min 600 att)
— Warren Sharp (@SharpFootball) June 29, 2022
NBC Sports’ Warren Sharp pointed out that McLaurin was only targeted on 357 out of 1,629 routes.
Worst yet, only 62 percent of those throws were catchable.
Despite the low number of reception attempts, he still had 1,118 and 1,053 yards in 2020 and 2021, respectively.
Yet even though he could have been targeted more times, he does not complain about it.
He still goes on with his business and improves himself as the Commanders depend on him more.
However, it isn’t reassuring that Carson Wentz ranks last in accuracy over the last two seasons.
Therefore, McLaurin should exert more patience during off-target throws.
Their Opponents Know What’s Coming
While the Commanders can rely on McLaurin, the opposing defense knows that covering him gives them a better winning chance.
If they take him away from the game, Washington’s quarterbacks will find it more difficult to execute plays.
That lack of help turns the attention to him and limits the numbers he produces.
This season, the Commanders hope that Jahan Dotson will live up to the hype and take some pressure off McLaurin.
NEXT: Terry McLaurin Has Thrived With A Shocking Amount Of QBs