Terry McLaurin’s Contract Standoff with Commanders Reaches Boiling Point—What’s Next for the Star Wide Receiver?

Terry McLaurin’s simmering unease with the Washington Commanders is rapidly escalating as contract talks remain at a standstill. The wide receiver, who once roared onto the scene as a promising third-round pick in 2019, is now inching toward the final year of his deal — and he’s not exactly thrilled with how negotiations are dragging out .Frustration is mounting, especially after a stellar season where McLaurin caught 82 passes for over a thousand yards and carved out a career-high 13 touchdowns, earning him a well-deserved Pro Bowl spot for the second time. Yet, despite these achievements, the long-term security he craves still feels elusive. Adding another layer of complexity: the Commanders’ recent acquisition of Deebo Samuel, whose presence reshuffles the wideout hierarchy and salary dynamics alike. Whether McLaurin will show up when minicamp rolls around remains a question hanging in the air — one that underscores just how tense this situation has become. The Commanders, fresh off a run to the NFC Championship game, are balancing ambition with personnel puzzles, and McLaurin’s contract saga is right at the heart of that balancing act. LEARN MORE

Schultz previously reported that McLaurin left in the middle of OTAs after initially reporting to them. Whether or not he will be at the Commanders’ minicamp from June 10-12 remains unknown.McLaurin is heading into the final year of his current contract after getting selected by Washington in the third round of the 2019 NFL Draft. He signed a three-year rookie extension worth ,364,000 in 2022.After an impressive campaign, McLaurin witnessed his team acquire Deebo Samuel and his .8 million salary in a trade from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Samuel tallied 51 catches for 670 yards and three touchdowns in his sixth and final year with the 49ers.

After an impressive campaign, McLaurin witnessed his team acquire Deebo Samuel and his .8 million salary in a trade from the San Francisco 49ers in exchange for a 2025 fifth-round pick. Samuel tallied 51 catches for 670 yards and three touchdowns in his sixth and final year with the 49ers.

AdvertisementSamuel joins McLaurin and veteran Noah Brown as the presumed starters ahead of 2025.Advertisement