Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin reported to training camp on July 23, 2023, but did so under challenging circumstances. He was placed on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list due to an ankle injury. This decision follows his absence during the initial four days of camp while he sought a contract extension, as he is entering the final year of his current deal.
Head Coach Dan Quinn confirmed that McLaurin will work with trainers on the sidelines. His participation in practice remains uncertain as he focuses on recovery. “On the business side, [General Manager] Adam Peters and the team are still working hard with Terry and his representatives,” Quinn stated. “While on PUP, it’s just like we do with other guys—work with the trainers to get back as soon as he can.”
McLaurin’s absence from the field has come at a financial cost. He has been fined $50,000 per day, totaling $200,000, for missing the start of training camp. Despite these penalties, discussions regarding a new contract continue, although both sides remain apart on terms.
Quinn mentioned a meeting with McLaurin on the night before his arrival to camp, expressing enthusiasm about his presence. “It was great,” he said. “I’m really pumped that he’s here.” This meeting took place while McLaurin dealt with the same ankle injury that affected him at the end of the previous season.
Fans were allowed to attend training camp practices for the first time on McLaurin’s arrival day. Earlier this month, he indicated he would not take the field without “progression” toward a new contract. His return does not necessarily signify that negotiations have advanced, especially since he is not expected to participate in drills while recovering.
Peters addressed the situation on the first day of camp, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a straightforward and good-faith approach in negotiations. “You’d like to get these things done quicker, but it doesn’t always happen that way,” Peters noted. “You’re dealing with a really good player and really good person… understanding our goal is to get a deal done.”
While McLaurin has not publicly disclosed the specifics of the contract he is seeking, he referenced the current market trends for players of his caliber. Several high-profile wide receivers have signed lucrative deals recently. For instance, Tee Higgins of the Cincinnati Bengals signed a four-year contract worth $115 million with $40.9 million guaranteed, DK Metcalf of the Pittsburgh Steelers secured a four-year deal totaling $132 million with $60 million guaranteed, and Garrett Wilson of the New York Jets inked a four-year extension worth $130 million with $90 million guaranteed.
Turning 30 in September, McLaurin enters an age where teams often reassess a receiver’s longevity. However, he highlighted that he has played only seven seasons in the NFL and did not have extensive playing time during his first two years at Ohio State. “I want them to view it on a case-by-case basis,” McLaurin stated last week.
Last year, two prominent veteran receivers also secured extensions despite being in their thirties. Tyreek Hill signed a three-year extension worth $30 million annually with $52.535 million guaranteed at age 30, while Mike Evans of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers signed for two years and $41 million with $35 million guaranteed at the age of 31.
Since being drafted as a third-round pick in 2019, McLaurin has established himself as the top receiver for the Commanders. He has surpassed 1,000 yards in each of the past five seasons and recorded 13 touchdown passes in 2024, placing him second in the NFL. His leadership is recognized by teammates, as he was voted a captain during the postseason last year.
“Without a doubt, everybody in this building values Terry very much,” Peters concluded, highlighting the team’s commitment to keeping McLaurin as part of their future. As the Commanders continue their training camp, all eyes will be on McLaurin’s recovery and the ongoing negotiations surrounding his contract.
