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.
"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.
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.