Commanders' Marshon Lattimore joins Terry McLaurin in OTA absence
The post Commanders' Marshon Lattimore joins Terry McLaurin in OTA absence appeared first on ClutchPoints.
The Washington Commanders are entering a new era under head coach Dan Quinn after reaching the NFC Championship in 2024, but the early stages of offseason work have already featured two notable absences. Both Marshon Lattimore and Terry McLaurin were missing from the latest round of Commanders OTAs, raising questions about the participation of two of the team's most prominent veterans.
Advertisement
While OTAs are voluntary, leadership presence still carries weight—especially in a locker room undergoing transition. Lattimore's absence stood out, with Dean Jones of FanSided reporting that he opted to train away from the team.
For Lattimore, it's an offseason with stakes. After joining Washington via trade and dealing with injuries last season, his position in the secondary isn't guaranteed. The Commanders defense now includes newcomers Jonathan Jones and rookie Trey Amos, creating a competitive environment at cornerback.
Contract-wise, the decision to skip team activities draws added scrutiny. According to Spotrac, Lattimore is carrying an $18 million cap hit this season, with only $2 million in dead cap if the team were to move on after the year. That structure gives Washington roster flexibility and puts a premium on offseason visibility for the veteran.
That structure gives Washington roster flexibility and puts a premium on offseason visibility for the veteran.
Advertisement
With a loaded cornerback room and a coaching staff focused on accountability, every rep matters. Lattimore's decision to train away from the team, even during voluntary work, opens the door for players like Jones and Amos to gain ground.
As for McLaurin, his absence may not carry the same level of scrutiny, but it still leaves a leadership void during a crucial stage of development. For a team trying to build on last season's playoff run, presence on the field—even in shorts—sends a message.
The Commanders are no longer rebuilding. They're reloading, and the standard has shifted. Whether Lattimore and McLaurin return to camp ready to lead or play catch-up remains to be seen—but the tone of the offseason has already been set.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Newsweek
an hour ago
- Newsweek
Vikings, JJ McCarthy Receive Shocking 2025 Prediction
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The Minnesota Vikings are beginning a new era of football during the 2025 NFL season with second-year quarterback J.J. McCarthy taking over as the starter. After a big-time season in 2024 from Sam Darnold, the team saw him leave in free agency to sign a three-year, $100.5 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks. Daniel Jones also left town in free agency to sign with the Indianapolis Colts. While many thought the Vikings could be a landing spot for Aaron Rodgers, they decided to roll with McCarthy. Behind him, Minnesota did acquire Sam Howell from the Seahawks to be McCarthy's primary backup. J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in a drill during training camp on August 02, 2024 in Eagan, Minnesota. J.J. McCarthy #9 of the Minnesota Vikings participates in a drill during training camp on August 02, 2024 in Eagan, Minnesota. Photo byNo one knows what to expect from McCarthy this season. He missed all of last season due to a knee injury that he suffered during preseason action. Read more: Vikings' Justin Jefferson Sends Clear Message to JJ McCarthy Despite the valuable missed time, the Vikings have full faith in McCarthy. He was drafted with the No. 10 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft to be a starter and now he'll have a chance to prove the franchise right for believing in him. Ahead of the upcoming 2025 campaign, Minnesota and McCarthy have received a shocking prediction. During a fill-in appearance on "The Herd," Jason McIntyre of FS1 did not hold back his opinion on the Vikings and McCarthy. He is expecting huge things from the team in 2025. "I am coming out right now and telling all of America I'm all in on J.J. McCarthy and the Minnesota Vikings," McIntyre said. "They will play in the NFC Championship this year. ... I am all in on this team." McIntyre continued forward, doubling down with his belief that Minnesota is in for a special season with McCarthy leading the way. Read more: Steelers Linked to Possible Trade With Packers for Aaron Rodgers Support "There's a couple things at play: Without any prompting, Aaron Jones has not stopped talking about J.J. McCarthy. The leadership — the dude's got it," he said. "Sometimes you just have it. ... Jim Harbaugh, who knows a little bit about football, loves J.J. McCarthy. The team of destiny this year is the Minnesota Vikings." If McCarthy can come in and lead the Vikings to the NFC Championship Game in his first year as a starter, he will instantly quiet all of the doubters. He has a proven track record of winning and will look to bring that success to a franchise that has never won a Super Bowl. With the young quarterback leading the way, McIntyre sees something special brewing in Minnesota. It will be interesting to see if he's right. For more Minnesota Vikings and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
Newsweek
3 hours ago
- Newsweek
Jayden Daniels Reveals Thoughts on Frustrated Commanders WR
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Before he reaches year two in the NFL, Washington Commanders wide receiver Jayden Daniels is watching a potential holdout situation play out. If Terry McLaurin feels he has to force his team's hand to offer him a new deal, it could directly affect the sophomore passer. Fortunately for the Commanders, Daniels hasn't lost his focus. He remains in good standing with his All-Pro weapon and, ultimately, understands that the business side of the game sometimes overshadows the rest. Recently, Daniels spoke on the situation involving McLaurin, which includes an absence from minicamp. PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 14: Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders celebrates after a touchdown during an NFL Football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 14, 2024 in Philadelphia,... PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - NOVEMBER 14: Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders celebrates after a touchdown during an NFL Football game against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on November 14, 2024 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. More"Me and Terry have a good relationship outside of football," Daniels told reporters recently, according to Pro Football Talk. "Obviously, he has to handle what he has to handle, but that doesn't change anything, the fact that he is part of our brotherhood. We know Terry is working and everything. We have to get better, and he knows he has to get better each and every day." Commanders head coach Dan Quinn didn't have much to say on the matter outside of confirming that he's been in contact with the star wideout, and claims that McLaurin has had a "great offseason," based on their discussions. What's the Latest on the Terry McLaurin Saga in Washington? On Thursday, NFL Insider Jordan Schultz reported that McLaurin has "made it clear" to the Commanders' organization that he's frustrated with the lack of progress in contract discussions. Sources: #Commanders All-Pro WR Terry McLaurin has made it clear to the team that he's frustrated with the lack of progress on a long-term deal. As I previously reported, McLaurin unexpectedly left voluntary workouts after initially attending, and it remains to be seen whether… — Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) June 5, 2025 McLaurin, who's entering the final season of his current contract, does not have an extension in place. Clearly, the star wideout wants to lock in a new deal before heading into the 2025 NFL season. Securing money for the future, while eliminating the distractions of talking shop throughout the year, should be a priority for a team that hopes to make a deep postseason run in 2026. While McLaurin's absence at minicamp recently was notable and seemingly part of plan to make a push for a new deal, he was required to attend. When it comes to June 10-12, those are the dates to really keep an eye on. According to Schultz, McLaurin's plans for attending the mandatory phase of minicamp are unknown. "It remains to be seen" is the messaging coming from reports. While the situation is far from ideal, the Commanders remain in a good spot, especially since Daniels is seemingly comfortable with the situation. The last thing Washington wants to do is find a reason to break up the duo. In 17 games with Daniels under center, McLaurin thrived by catching 82 passes for 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns. For the second time in his career, McLaurin was a Pro Bowler. He was voted Second-term All-Pro in 2024.
New York Post
3 hours ago
- New York Post
Skip Bayless goes scorched on Steelers for signing ‘blame-deflecting diva' Aaron Rodgers in spicy rant
Skip Bayless reappeared on social media to blast the Pittsburgh Steelers for what he views as another bad decision at quarterback. The former ESPN and Fox Sports personality labeled Rodgers a 'washed-up, 41-year-old, finger-pointing, blame-deflecting diva' in a five-plus-minute rant he posted to X. Bayless was stunned the Steelers 'actually did it' by signing Rodgers, adding that he believes the ex-Jets signal caller is going to 'steal from the Steelers.' 'He was washed his last three years in Green Bay,' Bayless said. 'Go look at the numbers of his last three playoff games in Green Bay … I told the Jets he was washed.' Rodgers has agreed to terms on a one-year deal with the Steelers, who are basically all-in for the 2025 season after trading for star receiver DK Metcalf and with T.J. Watt entering the final year of his contract. 'What has become of the Pittsburgh Steelers?' he continued. 'I don't hate them anymore, I pity them.' Bayless referenced Rodgers' poor playoff stats, although he hasn't played in the playoffs since 2021. His last postseason contest game in a 13-10 home loss with Green Bay to the 49ers in the NFC Divisional Round, when Rodgers went 20-of-29 with 225 yards and zero touchdowns. Skip Bayless goes scorched earth on Aaron Rodgers. X, @RealSkipBayless Rodgers last secured a playoff win in 2020 over the Rams (23-of-36, 295 yards, two touchdowns) but followed that victory by losing to the eventual champion Buccaneers (33-of-48, 346 yards, three touchdowns, one interception) at home in the NFC Championship game. Bayless claimed the Steelers are better off with Mason Rudolph at quarterback and 'starting to look like the odds-on favorite to be the first pick in the draft next year.' Aaron Rodgers signed with the Steelers on Thursday. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST 'At least got a name, but he ain't got any game,' Bayless concluded. Rodgers had an uneven season as the Jets' signal caller in 17 games last season, throwing for 3,897 yards and 28 touchdowns with 11 interceptions. He played just four snaps in his first Jets season before suffering a torn Achilles tendon.
