The Washington Commanders held their annual Welcome Home Luncheon on Thursday at MGM National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland.
The purpose of the luncheon is to kick off a new season while honoring the previous season. The entire team and coaches are in attendance, as are some of the greatest players in franchise history.
On Thursday, Washington announced players of the year for the 2021 season. And the winners were no surprise.
On offense, it was wide receiver Terry McLaurin. McLaurin caught 77 passes for 1,053 yards and five touchdowns, despite more inconsistent play at quarterback. The offensive player of the year is named after the legendary Bobby Mitchell.
Offensive player of the year award (Named after Bobby Mitchell): WR Terry McLaurin.
— John Keim (@john_keim) September 1, 2022
Defensive tackle Jonathan Allen took home the hardware for defensive player of the year. Allen received a contract extension last July and then went on to have the best season of his NFL career. Allen recorded 62 tackles, nine sacks, 10 tackles for loss and 30 quarterback hits.
Jonathan Allen named the 2021 Defensive player of the year…award named after Sam Huff
Terry McLaurin named 2021 offensive player of the year..named after Bobby Mitchell
Tress Way named 2021 Special Teams player of the year..named after Mark Mosely— George Wallace (@GWallaceWTOP) September 1, 2022
Washington punter Tress Way was named the franchise’s special teams player of the year for 2021. Way was emotional, speaking of losing his father before last season.
Emotional moment at the Luncheon; P Tress Way chokes up when saying, "Last year was my first season playing without my dad. I didn't start so hot, I wasn't hitting the ball too well." Way (ST player of the year) credited his coverage unit with helping him overcome his slow start.
— John Keim (@john_keim) September 1, 2022
The legendary Darrell Green was also honored with a legacy award.
Legendary Darrell Green. @Commanders pic.twitter.com/JeavONPR0P
— Anthony Tilghman (@AnthonyTilghman) September 1, 2022
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