Washington Commanders Entering 'Fun Part of the Offseason' Says WR Terry McLaurin

Upon returning for the start of the Washington Commanders' offseason program, star receiver Terry McLaurin described the fun part of being with the team this time of year.

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (17). / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Star Washington Commanders receiver Terry McLaurin will play with his 11th different starting quarterback when he enters his sixth NFL season this year.

Whether that quarterback is veteran Marcus Mariota to begin the year or whatever rookie becomes the latest hope for a successful franchise future this April, McLaurin and the Commanders will continue their quest for the right fit after last year's starter Sam Howell was shipped off to the Seattle Seahawks this offseason.

While nobody would blame the Washington star for voicing frustration in the incredible turnover at the team's most important position - similar to the frustrations shared by defensive tackle Jonathan Allen last year - McLaurin actually says this part of the offseason is the best part. At least from a fun and enjoyment standpoint.

Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin (17). / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

"Honestly, I think this is the fun part of the off season because you really get to start getting to know your guys on a personal level," McLaurin said after reporting for the start of the Commanders' offseason program. "You get to do the camaraderie and the team-building things, and you are starting from the same level. We're all learning a new offense, new defense, we're all learning new names, new faces, so we get to everybody, get to start on the same level, and get to build this thing from the ground up."

Washington general manager Adam Peters resisted calling the project he's undertaking as a rebuild, but starting from the ground up typically brings forth those types of labels.

Perhaps the term to use is renovation, or retooling, whether it really matters or not. What does carry heavy importance right now is the level of dedication being shown by the locker room leaders Peters and coach Dan Quinn are inheriting, and how they welcome new leaders like linebacker Bobby Wagner and running back Austin Ekeler.

For now, it seems the transition from what was Commanders football to what it will become is being embraced and going well.

There are a few more phases left before we see how competitive Washington will or could be on the actual playing field, but if early returns give any indication, it should be a unified effort.