Washington Commanders struggle with Terry McLaurin contract negotiations, risking his loss amidst trade speculation and strategic uncertainty.
The Washington Commanders, coming off a near Super Bowl appearance in 2024, have made significant offseason moves by acquiring players like Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel. However, as the ongoing Terry McLaurincontract negotiations remain unresolved, concerns are growing that trading McLaurin could disrupt the team’s Super Bowl aspirations. The issue has sparked widespread speculation linking McLaurin to multiple contenders, posing a crucial dilemma for Washington’s management.
Trade Rumors and Their Potential Impact on Washington’s Roster
One notable trade proposal surfaced from Bleacher Report, suggesting the Commanders could send Terry McLaurin and a third-round draft pick to the Los Angeles Chargers in exchange for receiverQuentin Johnston, a second-round pick, and a fourth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Such a move would dramatically alter the Commanders’ offseason plans, leading some to question the wisdom of such a decision given McLaurin’s importance.
The offense would likely suffer without McLaurin, who has proven to be a vital weapon for the franchise. Kristopher Knox highlighted McLaurin’s value by stating,
“McLaurin would walk into L.A. as Herbert’s top perimeter target and would instantly elevate the passing game,”
and added,
“For a team looking to leapfrog the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC West and make a deep postseason push, that would be huge.”
—Kristopher Knox, Sports Analyst
Contract and Salary Cap Considerations in the Trade Discussion
A central factor in the ongoing rumors is McLaurin’s extension talks, which have not yet culminated in a signed deal. With five straight 1,000-yard seasons, McLaurin has established himself as a top-tier receiver deserving of a lucrative contract. The Commanders’ cap is reportedly in a healthy position, which should allow them to negotiate a competitive extension. Knox also noted the Chargers’ financial capacity, saying,
Image of: Terry McLaurin
“And like the Cardinals ($40.9 million), the Chargers should have the cap space ($27.9 million) needed to work out a long-term extension with McLaurin.”
—Kristopher Knox, Sports Analyst
Despite the acquisition of Deebo Samuel, who offers a strong presence on the field, Washington would be taking a significant risk by moving McLaurin. The team’s reliance on him as a boundaryreceiver remains critical to their offensive strategy, and questions arise whether Samuel alone can carry the receiving corps.
Evaluating Potential Return Assets: Quentin Johnston’s Role
The proposed trade sends Quentin Johnston to Washington, a young receiver still developing from TCU. Knox provided insight on Johnston’s potential, stating,
“Los Angeles could send Johnston to Washington in the deal,”
and continued,
“While the TCU product hasn’t played up to his draft status yet (1,142 yards in two seasons), he has intriguing upside, is only 23 years old and is starting to adapt to the NFL game.”
—Kristopher Knox, Sports Analyst
Johnston is under contract with up to three years remaining, including a fifth-year option, making him a potential long-term asset. Knox also mentioned,
“With up to three years left on Johnston’s rookie contract—including the fifth-year option—he could be valuable enough for Washington to justify a Day-2 pick swap instead of an outright second-rounder.”
—Kristopher Knox, Sports Analyst
Nevertheless, Johnston’s demonstrated progress remains limited, and without a proven franchise quarterback, his ability to flourish is uncertain. Trading McLaurin for Johnston and draft picks could leave the Commanders with one of the weakest receiving corps in their division, and possibly among all teams competing for the Super Bowl.
Implications of a McLaurin Trade on Washington’s Championship Prospects
Trading McLaurin for a moderate draft capital upgrade would set the Commanders back in their competitive development, removing a key weapon for their franchise quarterback and undermining an otherwise promising offseason. The risk of losing such a proven receiver outweighs the potential benefits. The logical priority for Washington should be securing an extension for McLaurin, keeping their offensive continuity intact for a Super Bowl push.
If trade proposals are not overwhelmingly favorable, the Commanders are better positioned to maintain their quest for the championship with McLaurin on the field and address contract decisions later. Preserving the team’s core talent offers the highest chance to capitalize on their current momentum and contend at the highest level in the upcoming season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Terry McLaurin wear 17?
A. Terry McLaurin wears number 17 as a receiver. He wanted to choose 83, like in college at Ohio State, but that number was taken by Brian Quick. Instead, he picked from available numbers 80 and 17, and went with 17.
Q. Why is Terry McLaurin so good?
A. Coaches, analysts, and competitors agree that his unique talent stands out: the ability to follow the ball’s path, a skill that can’t be taught. Years as a center fielder helped him refine this knack, allowing him to predict where the ball will be and catch it, often before appearing on the TV screen.
