Commanders, Terry McLaurin Expected to Reach Blockbuster Contract Extension
Terry McLaurin’s time with the Washington Commanders looks far from over.
Multiple league sources report that the star wide receiver and the Commanders are expected to finalize a massive contract extension before the start of training camp. The deal is rumored to be in the range of three years, $90 to $100 million, with $60 million guaranteed, placing McLaurin among the NFL’s highest-paid receivers.
This development comes amid a brief contract-related absence, as McLaurin skipped the Commanders’ mandatory minicamp in early June. His absence, while notable, was not considered contentious. It mirrors a strategy he used in 2022, when he also held out of offseason activities before eventually agreeing to a three-year deal.
A Star Worth the Investment
Since being drafted in the third round in 2019, McLaurin has become the heart and soul of Washington’s offense. He’s recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in five straight seasons, all while dealing with a revolving door of quarterbacks. In 2024, with rookie Jayden Daniels under center, McLaurin took his game to another level—posting a career-high 13 touchdowns and earning his second Pro Bowl selection.
Head coach Dan Quinn called him “a model professional,” and GM Adam Peters referred to him as “essential to what we’re building.” With McLaurin turning 29 this September, the Commanders are showing they want to win now and maintain a stable veteran core around Daniels.
Setting the Market
The timing of this extension reflects McLaurin’s current standing in a rapidly evolving receiver market. Recent deals for receivers like DK Metcalf, Deebo Samuel, and A.J. Brown have reset the bar, with some earning upwards of $30 million per year.
McLaurin’s consistency, durability, and leadership put him in that same elite category. Analysts project that a three-year extension worth about $33 million annually would not only match current market trends but also reflect his increased value to a team on the rise.
McLaurin’s Impact on Jayden Daniels
While Terry McLaurin has always been the Commanders’ top offensive weapon, his value grew even more evident last season as he quickly built chemistry with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The duo led Washington to an NFC Championship appearance, with McLaurin becoming Daniels’ most trusted target on third downs and in the red zone.
Retaining McLaurin ensures Daniels continues to develop within a stable and dynamic offense. For a young quarterback, having a veteran like McLaurin—both as a target and a mentor—is invaluable.
No Real Concern in Washington
While McLaurin’s absence from minicamp generated headlines, the tone inside the Commanders’ facility remains calm and confident. Head coach Dan Quinn dismissed any drama, stating: “Business is part of football. We love Terry. We want him here for a long time, and we’re working toward that.”
McLaurin, who has never been known for theatrics or off-field distractions, has kept things professional. Sources indicate negotiations have been “respectful and productive,” with both sides aiming to finalize terms before the start of training camp in July.
Looking Ahead
If the deal is completed as expected, it will signal a clear shift in the Commanders’ approach to roster building. Locking down a cornerstone player like McLaurin shows they are not just developing for the future—they’re trying to win now.
With McLaurin, Daniels, and a retooled coaching staff, Washington is poised to make another deep playoff push in 2025. And keeping “Scary Terry” in burgundy and gold may prove to be the most important move of all.
