Terry McLaurin's contract extension with the Washington Commanders will be a hot topic of discussion once again this week. One NFL analyst implored those in power to get the gifted wide receiver the big pay rise he so richly deserves.
Nothing is imminent, and recent reports aren't especially encouraging. McLaurin is supposedly unhappy with how long his new deal is taking, but it's a complex situation. With Washington's mandatory minicamp upcoming, the former third-round pick has a big decision to make if the matter isn't resolved.
The Commanders cannot make things more complicated than needed. They have a big chance to cement their status among the NFL's heavyweights next season. Having the team's best pass-catcher away from practice and disgruntled isn't a good look. The sooner it gets sorted, the better it'll be for everyone involved.
NFL analyst urges Commanders not to overcomplicate Terry McLaurin's extension
This was a sentiment echoed by Tom Blair from NFL.com. He placed McLaurin at No. 4 on his list of players around the league who deserve a salary increase. The analyst also believes the Commanders would be foolish to let this drag on with their Super Bowl window firmly open.
"It might seem like only yesterday that we were talking about Washington needing to pay McLaurin, but it was actually many more days than that; 1,072, to be exact. Three years later, the Commanders would again be foolish not to extend him, but thankfully, they have many more good things going, starting with the total franchise rebirth sparked by Dan Quinn and Jayden Daniels. The Commanders need McLaurin to make the most of the window of contention that Daniels flung open."
Tom Blair
He's not alone. Most concede McLaurin deserves more money. He's an indispensable member of the roster, providing elite-level production and exceptional locker-room leadership. The Ohio State graduate typifies everything good about what the Commanders are trying to build. That, together with his unrivaled loyalty to the cause, should be rewarded accordingly.
McLaurin's representatives are trying to force the issue, which is their prerogative. Just what impact (if any) that'll have on Adam Peters is anyone's guess, but the general manager knows what he's doing. He's also stated how important the second-team All-Pro is to Washington's plans. It's a case of when, not if, something gets rubber-stamped.
Nobody is panicking just yet. It's probably frustrating for McLaurin to sit out — he's not built for staying on the sidelines. But sometimes, business has to take the front seat.
Everything will work out, even if the timeline is uncertain right now. Peters wants him to stay. McLaurin loves the franchise. The rest is just details.
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