The Washington Commanders are facing more uncertainty at one of Jayden Daniels’ top weapons.
Terry McLaurin’s contract extension talks have stalled, leaving the 26-year-old wide receiver’s status in question as training camp progresses into the end of the preseason.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter describes the negotiations as “status quo,” while Ian Rapoport estimates the Commanders are aiming for a deal around $30 million per year —slightly below the $33 million McLaurin is seeking.
McLaurin officially returned to practice off the PUP list on August 16, and the focus has shifted to getting him back up to full speed while managing his workload.
“That should not be confused with “status quo” between Terry McLaurin and the Commanders,” Schefter said. “Which means they are not close to a deal at this time. I think McLaurin continues to look for a deal north of what DK Metcalf got in Pittsburgh, which is $33 million per year. The Commanders are considerably lower.”
Head coach Dan Quinn has also stressed that McLaurin’s participation is about health and preparation, not about his ongoing contract negotiations.
McLaurin’s Holdout and Its Impact on Daniels and the Offense
While the contract impasse remains unresolved, there are silver linings for the Commanders’ offense. Daniels has made the most of the reps with Deebo Samuel and the rest of the Washington passing attack, giving Daniels another go-to option and forcing the quarterback to adjust.
The staff has raved about Daniels improving his timing and decision-making, and those connections could pay off if McLaurin misses any regular-season snaps. Training camp has essentially forced Daniels to become a more versatile quarterback, spreading the ball across multiple targets rather than relying solely on McLaurin.
At the same time, the lack of McLaurin on the field has emphasized the importance of building chemistry quickly. Samuel has emerged as a reliable option on intermediate routes. These experiences could give Washington more offensive flexibility once the season begins.
Commanders Want To Get Something Done Before Regular Season
That said, McLaurin’s talent and proven production are irreplaceable. Once he’s fully integrated into practice, Daniels will regain a true No. 1 target, potentially elevating the offense back to one of the league’s most dangerous passing attacks.
The timing of his return and his ability to quickly regain rhythm with Daniels will likely set the tone for how explosive Washington can be in 2025.
McLaurin has been the Commanders’ most productive receiver since entering the league in 2019. He hauled in 82 receptions for 1,096 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2024–25 while helping Daniels reach the NFC Championship Game.
His absence from camp has left a noticeable gap in timing and chemistry with the second-year quarterback, but Daniels is adapting.
Washington’s coaching staff has had to improvise while McLaurin sorts out his future.
For now, the focus is on managing reps, avoiding injury, and maximizing chemistry across the roster. McLaurin’s eventual resolution — whether a contract extension or a potential trade—will be a defining storyline for the Commanders heading into Week 1, but the team is determined not to let negotiations slow down their development.
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