Terry McLaurin’s Frustration: Could the Commanders Star Force a Blockbuster Trade Before the Season?

By Jason Bolton June 12, 2025 09:34

The Washington Commanders find themselves at a pivotal crossroads with star wide receiver Terry McLaurin, whose frustration over contract negotiations has led to his absence from the team’s mandatory minicamp. McLaurin’s holdout is stirring speculation that the veteran receiver could force a blockbuster trade before the 2025 NFL season kicks off, potentially reshaping the Commanders’ offense and sending ripples throughout the league.

McLaurin, entering the final year of his current three-year, $68.4 million extension signed in 2022, has been the Commanders’ most consistent offensive weapon amid a revolving door at quarterback. Despite Washington cycling through 11 different starters since his arrival, McLaurin has posted five consecutive 1,000-yard receiving seasons, including a standout 2024 campaign with 82 receptions on 117 targets for 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns. His postseason performance was equally impressive, highlighted by 227 yards and three touchdowns in Washington’s first NFC playoff victory since 1991.

Yet, despite these achievements, McLaurin’s current contract averaging $22.8 million annually falls short of what the market now demands for elite wideouts. Industry projections place his next deal around $93 million over three years, or roughly $31 million per year, positioning him among the NFL’s top 10 highest-paid receivers. This valuation is in line with recent contracts for peers like D.K. Metcalf ($33 million AAV) and Tee Higgins ($28.75 million AAV).

Sources close to the situation reveal that McLaurin’s decision to skip minicamp is a strategic move mirroring his 2022 contract holdout, when he similarly missed organized team activities before agreeing to his current extension. By sitting out, McLaurin signals his dissatisfaction with the pace of negotiations and his desire for a deal that reflects his on-field value. The Commanders, meanwhile, face a delicate balancing act between rewarding their star and managing salary cap flexibility, especially with fellow wide receiver Deebo Samuel also set to hit free agency after 2025.

McLaurin’s absence comes with financial consequences he is foregoing approximately $104,000 in fines for missing the three-day minicamp but the gamble underscores the seriousness of his stance. “He’s shown he’s willing to take a stand to get what he believes he deserves,” said an NFL executive familiar with the negotiations. “That kind of leverage can lead to a trade if the two sides can’t find common ground.”

A trade involving McLaurin would be blockbuster given his production, age (29), and leadership role. Teams in need of a proven No. 1 receiver with playoff experience could see him as a game-changing addition. Conversely, the Commanders would likely seek multiple high-value draft picks and young players in return to accelerate their rebuild.

Head coach Ron Rivera has refrained from publicly addressing the contract dispute, emphasizing team unity and preparation. “We want Terry here, we want him focused on football,” Rivera said. “But these things are handled behind closed doors.”

Ultimately, McLaurin’s frustration and holdout raise the possibility that he could force the Commanders’ hand, either securing a lucrative extension or prompting a trade before the season. For Washington, the priority is clear: resolve the standoff quickly to maintain offensive continuity. For McLaurin, it’s about securing his financial future and maximizing his prime years.

As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Washington’s front office and McLaurin’s camp. Whether this saga ends in a new contract or a seismic trade, one thing is certain Terry McLaurin’s next move will be one of the NFL’s most consequential storylines this summer.