Washington Commanders open their 2024 minicamp with big questions. Can new LT Laremy Tunsil solidify the O-line, and will star WR Terry McLaurin get his deal?
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The air was thick with anticipation—and a little bit of tension—as the Washington Commanders kicked off their mandatory minicamp on Monday. Fresh off a deep playoff run that re-energized the franchise, the focus is squarely on taking the next step. But as the team gets to work, two major storylines dominate: the integration of a revamped, star-powered offensive line and the unresolved contract situation of superstar receiver Terry McLaurin.
He’s just got that explosiveness and toughness about him that you can’t get enough of.
The biggest physical change on the field is impossible to miss: five-time Pro Bowl left tackle Laremy Tunsil. Acquired in a blockbuster offseason trade, Tunsil is the new anchor of an offensive line built to protect the quarterback and pave the way for a dynamic run game. Head Coach Dan Quinn has emphasized the fierce competition along the line as a key theme of minicamp. The goal isn't just to be good; it's to be dominant. With Brian Robinson Jr. established as the lead back, finding reliable depth behind him will be crucial to fully capitalizing on this new-look front.
While the on-field work is underway, a significant piece of business looms in the front office. Terry McLaurin, the heart and soul of the receiving corps, is in the midst of contract negotiations. While both sides have expressed optimism, the situation is a top priority that the team wants resolved sooner rather than later to avoid any distractions. McLaurin is the first in a line of key players, including Deebo Samuel, Brian Robinson Jr., and special teams aces Tress Way and Jeremy Reaves, who are due for extensions. Securing the team's core talent is paramount to sustaining the success built in 2024.
Entering his second year, Dan Quinn's message is clear: maintain the edge. He praised the veteran leadership for setting the tone early in camp. On the defensive side, the news is overwhelmingly positive. Quinn raved about defensive back Quan Martin, who is recovering ahead of schedule from offseason shoulder surgery and looks poised for a breakout year. 'He’s just got that explosiveness and toughness about him that you can’t get enough of,' Quinn told reporters. The team is also counting on a big step up from linebacker Jordan Magee, who is finally healthy after his rookie season was hampered by injury. A healthy Martin and an emerging Magee could elevate an already formidable defense.
The NFL has taken notice of Washington's resurgence. The 2025 schedule is one of the toughest in the league, highlighted by a staggering five prime-time games. The Commanders will be under the national spotlight consistently, testing their mettle against the league's best. The schedule includes a marquee international game in Madrid against the Miami Dolphins in Week 16 and a massive Christmas Day showdown with the rival Dallas Cowboys. This gauntlet is the ultimate test for a team that isn't just hoping to make the playoffs anymore—they're aiming to get back to the NFC Championship game and beyond.
Minicamp is just the first step on a long journey, but the battle lines for the 2025 season are already being drawn. From the trenches to the negotiating table, the Commanders are making moves to solidify their status as a true contender. Integrating new stars like Tunsil and securing cornerstone players like McLaurin will be the defining tasks of this offseason. If they succeed, this team has every reason to believe they can conquer their challenging schedule and make another deep run in January.
