Terry McLaurin’s contract standoff with the Washington Commanders is finally over.
On Monday morning, the star wideout agreed to a three-year deal worth $96 million, including $30 million guaranteed. With the hold-in behind him, McLaurin is on track to suit up in Week 1 against the New York Giants.
The process wasn’t without its challenges.
At one point, McLaurin went as far as requesting a trade and sat out training camp while contract talks dragged on. Now that a deal is finalized, he’s expected back on the practice field on Wednesday.
From the beginning, McLaurin made it clear what he wanted — a contract comparable to that of Pittsburgh Steelers wideout DK Metcalf, his fellow 2019 draft pick who signed for $33 million per year. He came close with $32 million annually, and while the total number falls just short of Metcalf’s, his deal includes 34.5% guaranteed — a higher percentage than most.
A third-round pick out of Ohio State, McLaurin has been a cornerstone for Washington’s offense since entering the league. He’s coming off his best season yet, posting 82 catches for 1,096 yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns, the second-most in the NFL last year.
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The Commanders’ offensive hopes this season will once again run through McLaurin. The team added former 49ers star Deebo Samuel to the receiving corps and dealt running back Brian Robinson Jr. to San Francisco, but McLaurin remains the centerpiece.
After months of uncertainty, both sides finally found common ground. With the deal signed and the drama behind him, McLaurin can shift his focus back to football — leading Washington’s offense and proving why he’s among the league’s most dependable receivers.