Terry McLaurin, the Washington Commanders’ standout wide receiver, is aiming for a contract extension as he enters the final year of his current three-year, $68.3 million agreement. With the 2024 season behind him, McLaurin wants a raise to reflect his rising status, but the ongoing negotiations with the Commanders have reached an impasse.
McLaurin’s Performance Justifies His Contract Expectations
At nearly 30 years old, McLaurin earns $23.2 million annually, ranking him as the 16th-highest paid wide receiver in the NFL. However, the market for elite wideouts has surged, and McLaurin is likely targeting a yearly salary of $30 million or more in his next deal. His recent success, including five consecutive seasons with over 1,000 receiving yards and a career-high 13 touchdowns last season, supports his case for a substantial pay increase.
Alongside quarterback Jayden Daniels, who won the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year, McLaurin was crucial in leading the Commanders to the NFC Championship game before they were defeated by the Philadelphia Eagles, the eventual Super Bowl champions. McLaurin’s role as Daniels’ primary target helped him earn a second Pro Bowl selection and second-team All-Pro honors.
Negotiations Remain Difficult Despite Mutual Interest in Staying Together
Despite McLaurin’s desire to remain with the Commanders long-term, substantial challenges remain. NFL insider Albert Breer noted that
“they have a lot of work to do”
to reach an agreement.
I’d expect that work will pick up again when the league comes back from break in a few weeks. But it’s still not in a great place. So we’ll see what happens—there’s plenty of time to get something done,
—Albert Breer, Sports Illustrated NFL Insider
Frustration Mounts as Progress on Extension Slows
The stalled negotiations have begun to affect McLaurin’s relationship with the team. NFL reporter Jordan Schultz revealed that McLaurin is
“frustrated with a lack of progress on a long-term deal”
and unexpectedly left voluntary workouts after initially attending them.
Sources: #Commanders All-Pro WR Terry McLaurin has made it clear to the team that he’s frustrated with the lack of progress on a long-term deal. As I previously reported, McLaurin unexpectedly left voluntary workouts after initially attending, and it remains to be seen whether…
—Jordan Schultz, NFL Insider
This unease could intensify if McLaurin chooses not to participate in the mandatory minicamp set to begin on July 22, escalating the tension between the wide receiver and the team management.
Future Outlook for McLaurin’s Contract Situation
The delay in finalizing McLaurin’s contract casts uncertainty over the Commanders’ offensive plans moving forward. Given McLaurin’s pivotal role and impressive production, resolving this stalemate is critical for Washington as they prepare for the upcoming season. With time still on their side, both parties face mounting pressure to find common ground and secure a deal that reflects McLaurin’s value to the team.