Daniels on McLaurin: “It’s business” in Commanders, without affecting chemistry

Jayden Daniels Remains Calm Amid Terry McLaurin’s Absence at Training Camp

The Washington Commanders’ quarterback, Jayden Daniels, has started training camp without his star receiver, Terry McLaurin, due to a contract dispute. However, the second-year quarterback remains calm in the face of the situation.

“It’s business in the NFL,” Daniels stated on Wednesday.

McLaurin didn’t show up to camp on Tuesday seeking a contract extension, and the Commanders placed him on the reserve/did not report list on Wednesday morning. McLaurin has one year left on the extension he signed in 2022. The general manager, Adam Peters, indicated that they have held recent conversations, but McLaurin made it clear to reporters last week that he would not return to the field without “progress” in the negotiations. Despite the situation, Daniels assures that he is not worried that this will affect the chemistry on the field. McLaurin was Daniels’ preferred target last season, and both players were fundamental to an offense that ranked among the best in scoring and yards. Of Daniels’ 25 touchdown passes in the regular season, 12 were to McLaurin. The receiver had never achieved more than seven touchdowns since his rookie season in 2019. Both used to talk in training or text each other about plays and routes, thus improving their connection. McLaurin missed the last two weeks of voluntary offseason activities and mandatory minicamp, but they have kept in touch during the spring and summer.

“If it were last year, it would be different because we didn’t know each other,” Daniels commented.

The quarterback thinks it’s an exaggeration to say they need a lot of time together at this camp to maintain success.

“Obviously, Terry and I have a very good relationship. When the time comes and he’s back on the field, I don’t think we’ll miss a beat,” Daniels stated.

Meanwhile, coach Dan Quinn mentioned that the good news is that Washington is using the same offensive system, with the same coaches, as in 2024. Last year’s repetitions and those McLaurin had in the spring are of great help.

“Do I like him as a coach? No. I want all the players on the field all the time, but I am very comfortable with his situation. I don’t judge or worry too much about it. We want him. We know he is working hard,” Quinn concluded.