The Washington Commanders face mounting tensions as their veteran wide receiver Terry McLaurin’s contract talks stall, sparking trade rumors. Amid ongoing uncertainty, the New England Patriots have emerged as a leading contender closely watching the situation unfold.
While a new contract for McLaurin still appears possible, the timeline is tightening, raising questions about his future in Washington. McLaurin’s proven track record and leadership qualities have attracted serious interest from New England, a team that could benefit from adding a dependable wide receiver to support their developing offense.
Why the Patriots Are Considering Adding McLaurin
After trading for Stefon Diggs, who is recovering from a torn ACL, the Patriots had seemingly filled their need at wide receiver. However, stalled negotiations between McLaurin and the Commanders have changed the calculus. NFL insider Albert Breer highlighted on Arbella Early Edition that New England would be keen to acquire McLaurin if he becomes available.
With second-year quarterback Drake Maye still gaining experience and limited depth beyond Diggs, the Patriots see McLaurin as a reliable veteran who consistently produces regardless of the quarterback throwing to him. Breer emphasized McLaurin’s leadership, stating,
“This is a guy who has been a team captain for a long time, exemplary character, all of that, so my anticipation is that the Commanders are going to take a swing at getting something done with him over the course of the next week just because it makes too much sense for both sides. I think the Patriots would be very interested in this.”
—Albert Breer, NFL Insider
Standing 6 feet tall and weighing 210 pounds, McLaurin has recorded over 1,000 receiving yards in five consecutive seasons, achieving these numbers often without elite quarterback support. In the 2024 season, he caught 82 passes for 1,096 yards and scored a career-high 13 touchdowns, forming an immediate connection with sophomore quarterback Jayden Daniels. His two Pro Bowl selections and reputation as a clubhouse leader align well with the Patriots’ values.
The Clock Is Ticking for the Commanders to Finalize McLaurin’s Contract
Although McLaurin has not requested a trade, his growing frustration is evident. He recently told reporters that the stalled negotiations make it
“hard to see how I step on the field.”
—Terry McLaurin, Wide Receiver
McLaurin has expressed a strong desire to remain with Washington but acknowledged the need for mutual agreement, noting, “it takes two to tango.” At 29 years old, he is entering the final year of a three-year extension signed in 2022, making timely contract resolution critical for the Commanders as they continue rebuilding around Daniels.
If an agreement is not reached soon, the team risks losing a veteran leader during a pivotal stage in their development, especially since the wide receiver plays a key role in supporting their young quarterback.
Potential Price and Implications of a McLaurin Trade
Trading McLaurin would not come cheaply. According to Breer, any trade would require a new contract to be agreed upon first, likely involving a multi-year extension and a significant salary cap commitment from the acquiring team. This means the Patriots would need to prepare financially for such a deal.
Given the scarcity of proven receivers available on the market and uncertainties surrounding Diggs’ health, New England could see McLaurin as the critical piece to accelerate Maye’s growth. Conversely, if the Commanders allow negotiations to stall further, they may inadvertently strengthen a division rival by sending McLaurin to a situation primed for success.
As the deadline approaches, all eyes remain on Washington’s front office, who must decide whether to secure one of their most valuable players or risk losing him to an eager suitor like New England.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Terry McLaurin wear 17?
A. Terry McLaurin, a receiver, chose to wear number 17. He originally wanted 83, which he had at Ohio State, but Brian Quick already had it. McLaurin could choose between number 80 and 17.
Q. Why is Terry McLaurin called F1?
A. McLaurin liked the nickname “F1” because it highlighted his speed and sounded like McLaren, the car maker. However, the name “Scary Terry” became more popular. After he scored two touchdowns against the Giants, his celebrations were related to that nickname.
Q. Why is Terry McLaurin so good?
A. McLaurin is really good at watching the ball, understanding its path, and catching it. “I always keep my eyes on the ball,” McLaurin explained. “I trust my strength to avoid contact with others and my speed to stay in the right spot.”