Wide receiver Terry McLaurin has officially requested a trade, creating uncertainty for the Washington Commanders as they head into the offseason. This development follows stalled contract extension talks, with McLaurin reportedly frustrated by the team’s reluctance to meet his salary expectations.
McLaurin, 29, missed the initial four days of training camp before arriving on July 27 to avoid daily fines. However, he was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury from last season and has not participated in practice sessions. He has stated that he wants to see real progress in negotiations before returning fully to the field.
Rumors Point to Reunion with Former Ohio State Teammates on Jets
Despite the Commanders publicly stating no trade plans, league insiders believe the situation remains uncertain. McLaurin has one year left on a three-year, $68 million contract extension signed in 2022 but is seeking an annual salary exceeding $30 million. Should Washington consider a trade, the New York Jets have emerged as a logical destination where McLaurin could reconnect with former Ohio State teammates quarterback Justin Fields and wide receiver Garrett Wilson.
Alex Hanczar of PFSN highlighted the Jets’ ongoing need to strengthen their wide receiver corps as a key reason McLaurin would fit well in New York’s lineup.
The Jets have not been quiet in the 2025 offseason, filling holes at numerous positions,
Hanczar wrote.
With Adams gone, the wide receiver room may be in need of attention. Behind Garrett Wilson, Allen Lazard looks to serve as the WR2 with players like Tyler Johnson, Xavier Gipson, and Josh Reynolds competing for the next spot.
—Alex Hanczar, PFSN
Cap Space Challenges Could Complicate McLaurin’s Arrival in New York
The Jets currently have approximately $30 million in cap space, making the financial fit for McLaurin difficult but potentially manageable if they prioritize the signing. Hanczar noted that while this could be a tight squeeze, adding McLaurin would significantly enhance an already promising Jets offense entering the 2025 season.
Coming in just around $30 million in cap space, adding McLaurin may be tight. Although his services would bolster an already high-potential Jets offense entering 2025,
Hanczar concluded. —Alex Hanczar, PFSN
Trade Impact Could Reshape NFC and Jets’ Offensive Strategy
If the trade occurs, McLaurin would reunite with fellow Buckeyes Fields and Wilson, signaling New York’s commitment to surrounding their quarterback with dependable targets. On the other hand, the Commanders would enter a transition period at wide receiver, which could weaken their standing in the NFC.
Washington currently holds the third-best odds to win the NFC, but these chances would likely decline significantly if they lose McLaurin. While many believe the Commanders and McLaurin will eventually reach an agreement, the public trade request and stalled negotiations have introduced substantial doubt about their relationship moving forward.