Terry McLaurin could be set for a more prolonged absence than initially expected, according to a recent insider report. The Washington Commanders have only had their most prolific wide receiver available for four games this season, and there is now a chance he won't be available until after the bye week.
The Commanders have to roll with the punches. It's been one crippling injury blow after another this season, and it shows no signs of slowing down yet. McLaurin was the beating heart of everything good about the organization. However, his absence opens the door for others to step up their involvement.
And there was one intriguing development that gave a once highly-touted college prospect an early opportunity to shine in a different environment.
Treylon Burks is getting a shot much sooner than expected with the Commanders
Things did not go well for Treylon Burks with the Tennessee Titans. The physically imposing wideout was expected to fill the void left by A.J. Brown, but injuries and indifferent performances meant this marriage was always going to end horribly.
Burks was waived despite working his way back from a broken collarbone. Interest in his services on the open market was high, and the former Arkansas standout clearly felt Washington offered the environment to galvanize his career outlook.
The player probably wasn't expecting to be elevated to the active roster so soon. But the Commanders losing McLaurin, coupled with Noah Brown also being on injured reserve, caused plans to change. Just how involved he'll be remains to be seen, but his athleticism and speed to stretch the field are traits Washington doesn't have right now.
Expecting miracles right away from Burks is unfair. He's barely been with the Commanders for two weeks. His knowledge of the scheme will be pretty basic compared to others, so Kliff Kingsbury must play to his strengths to ensure he's not thinking about things too much.
It'll be interesting to see what the Commanders have planned for Burks. If he can build some early confidence, perhaps even with a couple of easy completions along the way, then this could be the positive step in the right direction he's looking for.
Things could easily go the other way. Still, it's not costing the Commanders much to find out if Burks' supreme physical attributes can be molded into something more in a scheme that should suit him.
Burks has missed a lot of football. At the same time, he shouldn't lack urgency or motivation as he moves toward potentially silencing his doubters.
And who knows, perhaps he'll become a surprise most won't see coming.