Terry McLaurin Shocks Fans with Trade Request Amid Contract Standoff

Tensions are rising in Washington as star wide receiver Terry McLaurin has officially requested a trade from the Commanders, according to a report from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The surprising move comes after prolonged frustration over contract negotiations and a lack of progress toward an extension.

From Camp Holdout to Trade Demand

McLaurin initially held out for the first four days of training camp, missing valuable reps as talks with the front office went nowhere. He reported back on Sunday and was promptly placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to a lingering ankle injury from last season. That move allowed him to avoid the $50,000 daily fine for skipping camp while still limiting his on-field activity.

Despite being sidelined, McLaurin has stayed visible. Each day after practice, he’s greeted fans, signed autographs, and even joked with young supporters. But behind the scenes, the frustration has reached a boiling point. Sources close to the team say no real progress has been made toward a new deal, and McLaurin has made it clear he won’t return to full participation until there’s movement.

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Commanders Staying Firm — For Now

The Commanders, however, are holding their ground. Team sources have repeatedly stated they will not trade McLaurin, regardless of his request. The challenge is not just replacing a Pro Bowl talent, but also the cost for any potential suitor: a hefty trade package plus a new deal likely worth over $30 million per year.

Still, there’s precedent for big-name receivers demanding a change of scenery — and getting it. Just this year, Deebo Samuel successfully pushed for a trade on his second attempt with the 49ers. Could McLaurin follow the same path?

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What’s Holding Up the Deal?

One key issue is age. McLaurin, who turns 29 in September, would be 31 when a new extension kicks in. That’s a critical number for NFL front offices, many of whom hesitate to pay premium money to wideouts over 30.

Still, other veterans have secured major contracts recently:

• Tyreek Hill (30) got 3 years, $30M per year from Miami
• Mike Evans (31) landed 2 years, $41M with $35M guaranteed from Tampa
• Courtland Sutton, who turns 30 in October, signed a 4-year, $92M extension with $41M guaranteed

The argument in McLaurin’s favor? His production is elite and consistent. He’s posted five straight 1,000-yard seasons, a franchise record, with a career-high 13 touchdowns last year — 12 of them coming from new quarterback Jayden Daniels. His career totals of 460 receptions for 6,379 yards and 38 touchdowns are nearly identical to DK Metcalf, who just landed a monster four-year deal worth $132 million.

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But unlike Metcalf, McLaurin is two years older, and that’s making Washington hesitate.

Money and Momentum

McLaurin is currently in the final year of the three-year, $68 million extension he signed in 2022. His base salary for this season is $15.5 million, but with bonuses, his cap hit sits at $25.5 million.

The Commanders’ front office, led by GM Adam Peters, insists they’re still committed to working out a deal.

“You’re dealing with a really good player and really good person,” Peters said. “Our goal is to get a deal done.”

Still, there’s been no momentum, and McLaurin has made it clear that he’s done waiting.

What Happens Next?

It’s unclear whether the Commanders will stand firm or eventually relent like the 49ers did with Deebo Samuel. Several other receivers — including Tee Higgins and Brandon Aiyuk — have made similar trade requests before ultimately signing extensions.

For now, McLaurin’s trade demand adds another layer of drama to Washington’s offseason. With a new quarterback under center and the franchise looking to turn a corner, losing one of the most respected and productive players on the roster would be a major blow.

Whether the Commanders listen to offers or hold their ground, one thing is certain: the clock is ticking, and all eyes are on Terry McLaurin’s next move.