Heading into this season, the Washington Commanders are eager to build off their massive success in 2024. However, one roadblock remains in their way of doing so. That being the front office’s ongoing standoff with Terry McLaurin.
Dating all the way back to minicamp, the veteran wide receiver has been adamant about locking down a new deal. This isn’t the first time he’s opted to hold out, but things have gone much differently the second go around.
As he gets ready to celebrate his 30th birthday, the Commanders have shown an unwillingness to pay him the going rate for high-level receivers. This has led to a dragged-out affair that’s also included a trade request from the homegrown star.
Even at this point of the ordeal, Washington is eager to keep McLaurin around. They view him as a vital part of the organization and have no plans to move him.
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NFL coach echoes Terry McLaurin’s value to the Washington Commanders
McLaurin has not backed down from his desired price point, and rightfully so. Despite being in the later stage of his career, he’s still proven to be one of the most reliable and consistent talents at his position. McLaurin is also fresh off one of his best campaigns with the Commanders, racking up another 1,000-yard season and catching a career-high 13 touchdowns.
In a recent column for ESPN, insider John Keim broke down why things between McLaurin and the Commanders haven’t worked themselves out yet. He also spoke with a former coach of veteran WR, who echoed how important he is to Washington’s offense.
“He’s the heartbeat of the team,” said one NFL assistant coach who spent time in Washington during McLaurin’s tenure.
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Keim also touched on a possible resolution to this ongoing saga. Though still slightly below McLaurin’s price point, he reported that the Commanders might be willing to go as high as $28 million annually.
“One league source said he could see the Commanders eventually agreeing to pay $28 million per year — but would that be enough,” Keim wrote. “According to various reports and multiple sources, DK Metcalf’s contract has served as a guide for McLaurin — though whether that’s in terms of average per year ($33 million) or total guarantees ($60 million) remains uncertain. McLaurin and Metcalf were in the same draft class and have comparable NFL statistics.”
With the regular season just weeks away, it remains unclear if Jayden Daniels will have his top target at his disposal to open the year.
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